Umpiring frustrates NZ women in Indian struggle

New Zealand once again had to overcome poor umpiring during a tough third day of their cricket Test with India's women at Vapi. India have a 76-run lead on the first innings with New Zealand 9 for 1 in their second innings.

The New Zealanders have been upset by the decisions of one umpire who has twice given Kate Pulford, the opening batsman, out caught behind when her bat has been nowhere near the ball. The fact the game is being televised and the evidence can be seen back in the dressing room has done nothing to impress the mood of the New Zealanders. They have not been helped either by several decisions against Indian batsmen going against them.

New Zealand started the day looking to make a breakthrough when the new ball became available after eight overs. But nightwatchman Jhulan Goswami hanging around for 98 balls. She helped Hemlata Kala, the star batsman in the Indian innings, wrest the initiative from New Zealand. Kala went on to score 110 off 280 balls. While there were frustrations with the umpiring, the New Zealanders did not help themselves by dropping catches.

Maia Lewis, the New Zealand captain, rotated the bowlers during the day, but the bulk of the bowling fell to Rebecca Steele, the highly-promising left-arm spinner who bowled 42 overs and ended with 5 for 79. Pulford also picked up two wickets. Unfortunately, Louise Milliken suffered a groin strain before lunch and did not bowl again in the day. New Zealand face a tough day to bat out for safety to save the match.