Tom Blundell’s century against Australia in the second Test of the series might have gone in vain as New Zealand fell 247 runs short of the target and lost the match. However, his knock had an even greater significance than the result of the match. The Kiwi opener raised his bat after reaching the three-figure mark in order to showcase his grip and raise funds for a six-year-old girl named Hollie Beattie who is suffering from a rare form of cancer called Neuroblastoma. Australia vs New Zealand 2nd Test Full Scorecard.

The grip of the opener’s bat was painted with tri-colours - blue, pink and white is designed by Hollie with the help of Kookaburra and is being sold by Players Sports to help raise money for her cancer fight. Beattie’s father is a staff member of Players Sports and the company who have been selling the grips for $9.99 in order to raise money for his daughter’s treatment. Tom Blundell Century in Vain As Australia Beat New Zealand by 247 Runs to Win the Boxing Day Test.

Blundell also decided to be the part of the social cause and was using the tri-colour grip during his resistive knock against the Aussies. Well, the opener’s knock might not have been able to guide his side to the victory. However, he must be more than happy if his contribution will save Beattie’s life. Apart from the opener,  fast-bowler Neil Wagner also used the tri-colour grip while batting in the match.

Meanwhile, New Zealand lost the Boxing Day clash and have now gone down 0-2 in the three-match series. The visitors lost the first Test by 296 runs and will play for pride in the third and last match of the series at the Sydney Cricket Ground, starting from January 03.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Dec 29, 2019 05:43 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).