Buzzin Cricket

England have now had six test matches against New Zealand in a row. I think it is fair to say that during this time, the side has made moves in the right direction. During the tour of New Zealand, England lost the first test by a staggering 189 runs. Fast forward three months and it is a completely different story. Michael Vaughan’s men secured a 2-0 series triumph with a comprehensive victory at Trent Bridge, winning by an innings and 9 runs.

So what has changed? What is improving? Well, as I have touched on before, the bowling attack is settled and starting to perform consistently. The trio of Broad, Anderson and Sidebottom all had significant spells where they picked up wickets. The latter was relied upon too much in New Zealand and hopefully Anderson’s performance in the most recent test is a sign of things to come. There are some other factors though which have assisted in England’s ever improving performances.

The return of Andrew Strauss – This has been key. The 177 he scored in Napier signalled a return to form for the Middlesex man. Not only did he average 66.5 during the most recent series, but he managed to pick up the man of the series award. He has looked solid at the top of the order and has a safe pair of hands at first slip – which also helps.

Michael Vaughan’s form – The return of Strauss enabled the England captain to move to his more natural position of number three. After an excellent century in the first test at Lords, he has gone onto average 50 in the series. If anything, he will be annoyed at not recording another big score after making two or three solid starts. Still, a vast improvement to performances he put in during the New Zealand tour.

Kevin Pietersen of old – Ok, it was only one innings, but the century he recorded in the final test was a joy to watch. He played with freedom and confidence, something that has been lacking in recent months. Keep it up KP.

Stuart Broad – He just has something special about him doesn’t he? During this series, he has made the England number 8 slot his own. He ended up the fourth leading run scorer for the home side, making his maiden test fifty along the way. His bowling is coming on as well, although he could do with getting a few more wickets here and there. At just 21 years of age though, you would bet on Stuart Broad being around for a long, long time.

Despite these positive aspects of the recent series, there are still some pieces the jigsaw that need to be adjusted. Specifically, the pieces that Paul Collingwood and Ian Bell are currently occupying. Neither of them made a fifty in the series and will be looking at the one-day games as a chance to find some form. Otherwise, the current form of Ravi Bopara or the return of Andrew Flintoff could effect them.

For now though, things are looking better for Peter Moores and his England team and if you were to bet on the Ashes right now – you’d give them a chance. The attention now moves onto the one-day team, with the momentum created by the test team hopefully playing a part in a rare limited overs victory.