Cricket: Catches win matches - and now raise money

Extra emphasis will be placed on having a safe pair of hands in the Black Caps upcoming fundraising cricket matches against a FICA World 11.

Auckland-based electricity and gas networks firm Vector today announced it would donate $3000 for every dismissal by catch throughout the three-match international series.

All proceeds will be directed to the New Zealand Cricket Tsunami Relief Fund with monies distributed between World Vision and Cricket Aid -- a Sri Lankan cricket initiative to provide emergency relief and then longer-term housing for Sri Lankan families and orphans.

Today's announcement follows the New Zealand Government's decision this week to pledge $5000 for every six, $1000 for every boundary and $20 for each run in the series and there is no limit on the funding.

Vector chairman Michael Stiassny reiterated earlier calls for other companies and individuals to get behind the fundraising event.

Matches will be played in Christchurch, Wellington and Hamilton on January 22, 24 and 26 respectively.

- NZPA