Batting practice for NZ XI

The New Zealand XI's second innings took on a strange complexion as four of their five batsmen left the crease 'retired out' in a three-day draw against Zimbabwe at Gisborne's Harry Baxter Oval.

The match went through the motions on Monday and allowed New Zealand's Test batsmen a chance to gain time at the crease ahead of Thursday's one-off Test.

With an earlier 9:30am start time to allow those involved in the Test enough time to travel inland to Napier later in the day, Zimbabwe's final wicket was taken without the addition of only one run to their overnight 328-9.

It was that of Ray Price, caught off the bowling of Sam Wells for 19. It was another cause for celebration for the Otago all-rounder, who had just been added to a 13-man New Zealand Test squad for his first national call-up.

Regis Chakabva remained undefeated on 87, with Tatenta Taibu (66) and Malcolm Waller (58) making contributions the previous day.

By the day's end, the New Zealand XI had amassed 274-5 and only one of those was actually dismissed by a Zimbabwean bowler.

That was Michael Bracewell, bowled by leg-spinner Graeme Cremer for 26.

Kruger van Wyk made 61 until he was pulled from the crease and Test batsmen Kane Williamson (52), Ross Taylor (54) and prospective wicketkeeper BJ Watling (20) also retired early.

Daniel Vettori was not out on 41 and Wells on 5.

The match did not have first-class status, which left the local side free to retire batsmen at their will.