As expected the game fizzled out into a run-fest draw. 1243 runs for only 19 wickets, heady stuff not for the faint-hearted bowler. New Zealand still lack penetration in the bowling department, but at least their batsmen showed they can occupy the crease. A result encouraging track in Hamilton might give them the opportunity to salvage a series draw, not out of the question, but damage-limitation might be a more feasible option.

Day 1 - Solid first day batting performance helps to put first Test humiliation behind them. Although Pakistan fought back after tea, when New Zealand lost some ground, dipping from 163-1 to 284-5 by the close.

Day 2 - Matthew Sinclair guided New Zealand to a formidable total in Christchurch, putting on 100 for the seventh wicket with Adam Parore. His control and composure led him to his second Test double-century in only his twelfth Test. It is only the ninth double-century by a New Zealander, and he joins Glenn Turner as a maker of twin 200's.

But a dropped catch at slip by Nathan Astle, reprieving a returning Inzamam took some of the shine off the day, as from 25-2, Pakistan recovered to 65 for two by the close.

Day 3 - A tough day in the field for the Kiwis, but they still have the upper hand. In the morning session, the Pakistanis dug in, a responsible hundred from Inzamam, and support from new boy Iqbal took them within reach of the follow-on target.

Then Youhana continued the good work finishing the day on 73, adding an unbroken stand of 37 for the seventh wicket with Saqlain (20*). They remain 135 behind, so the fourth morning may well decide the outcome of the match. Adding to New Zealand's woes, debut pace-bowler Chris Drum, fell and dislocated his shoulder, and won't be able to bowl again. With the pitch still looking a batsman's dream, a draw seems likely.

Day 4 - After a long day at Jade Stadium, Pakistan now lead by 85, after a chanceless 203 by Yousuf Youhana supported by the less orthodox, but resilient Saqlain Mushtaq, who remains 98* overnight, on the verge of what would be his maiden first-class and Test century. It was opener and part-time medium pacer Mark Richardson who made the solitary breakthrough for the Kiwis. He induced Youhana's first rash shot, and took the return catch just half an hour before the close, after Youhana and Saqlain had added 248 for the seventh wicket. It was not pretty to watch by all accounts, and the game is all but drawn.
Richard Kendall