In a week when we have lost one of our model sportsmen and marked the retirement of another, it is thrilling to see a good spirit catching on.

In one respect, New Zealand have it all over Australia going into the deciding third test in Adelaide next week.

David Leggat outlines what we've learnt from the first two cricket tests against Australia.

Kane Williamson, Steve Smith, David Warner all have the potential to be top dog on the ICC's test batting rankings by the end of the trans-Tasman series.

After the pain and pummelling of The Gabba, it warmed the beige cockles of my heart to see the New Zealand team bat like the Masters of the Universe over the WACA weekend.

Brendon McCullum would have loved a crack at a final day chase.

New Zealand's thoughts turned to Adelaide last night and the chance to depart Australia all-square in their test series.

New Zealand will head to Adelaide and the third and final test still with a chance to square their test series with Australia.

Live updates and scores of day five of the second test between the Black Caps and Australia at the Waca in Perth.

COMMENT: Their cricketers' "failure" to shake Ross Taylor's hand led to a flood of memories of deeds most foul, writes Chris Rattue.

Three result options going into the final day of the second test between Australia and New Zealand at the Waca.

New Zealand cricket great and mentor Martin Crowe jokingly told Ross Taylor he was disappointed with him beating his record.

Expect no favours from Australia when it comes to declaration time on the final day of the second test against New Zealand.

For just a few minutes today, New Zealand had a glimmer of hope.

You can only guess at the inner satisfaction Ross Taylor felt.

Live updates and scores of the second test between the Black Caps and Australia at the Waca in Perth.

New Zealand's stunning second test fightback in Perth can lead to an extraordinary test victory, according to Australia's cricket writers.

Craig McMillan believes Ross Taylor's magnificent double century at the Waca yesterday has been in the pipeline for a while.