Showdown at Hagley Oval

The big guns may have just about sorted themselves out at the top of the table but tomorrow the bottom two teams, Ireland and the Netherlands, face what has developed into their big test of the CricInfo Women's World Cup: they play each other.

Neither has recorded any wins so this match is as much about pride as anything else. Sri Lanka has escaped their clutches to secure sixth place and a guaranteed start in the next world cup in South Africa in 2004. What each side will be seeking now is to demonstrate their position does not reflect their ability.

Both have had moments when they have shown glimpses of potential. Ireland had a fine match against India when they pushed the confirmed round-robin third placegetters into a tough contest. The Netherlands reminded South Africa that none of the teams in the competition could be taken for granted.

The Netherlands have suffered from injuries keeping the best batsmen too often on the sideline but even the return of two of them could not provide them with enough runs to beat the Sri Lankans. The Irish batting also was found wanting in a chase for a small target set by the Sri Lankans. However, they can point to their 169 against India to suggest they are coming into the form necessary to take this match.

What will not be missing from the match will be commitment. Both teams have demonstrated a willingness to fight to the end even if the cause has been lost. With pride at stake, expect nothing different tomorrow.