Bat award delights Tiffen

Former New Zealand women's cricket captain Haidee Tiffen believes her Best Women's Batsmen trophy she won at the New Zealand Cricket awards dinner is a nice way to end her career.

Tiffen, who learnt to play in Timaru, won the award after her outstanding performances at the women's World Cup in Australia in July.

"It was a really nice way to finish, on what was a very special night."

The 30 year old, who retired after the tournament, averaged more than 46 with the bat, and scored her first one-day international century against Pakistan.

Despite being considered an all-rounder, she scored the second most runs in the tournament.

She said her form could be put down to a relaxed attitude and wanting to enjoy herself.

"I had been thinking about retiring so I decided to just go out there and enjoy myself."

The 117 ODI veteran said she was pleased with where women's cricket was heading.

"We now have four quality teams ... You don't want to be playing one team and seeing that as your most important match all the time."

Tiffen said she was looking forward to spending a relaxed, quiet summer beyond the boundary rope.

"I guess I'm looking forward to having a few sips of wine and cheering on the girls from the sideline."