A short step in the right direction
Cricinfo
25-Feb-2013
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While applauding the memorable come-from-behind series victory in New Zealand, the English papers point out several weaknesses in the team that should not be overlooked.
Mike Selvey writes in the Guardian:
This has been an indifferent winter, poor team performances outweighing some fine individual ones. Much thought will be needed before England and New Zealand resume round two in early May. Primarily the top-order batting remains in turmoil …
Alastair Cook needs considerable work outside off-stump, Michael Vaughan had a dreadful time … Strauss struggled until the last innings of the series, when his determination wrenched an innings, while Bell's capacity to squander talent will no doubt still infuriate
Angus Fraser, of the Independent, also has his reservations over the side’s performance:
With the exception of Sidebottom, who was outstanding throughout the series, and Stuart Broad and Tim Ambrose, who both showed promise, this was a workmanlike performance from a team who should be performing to a far higher level.
The Telegraph's Michael Henderson is all praise for Michael Vaughan's captaincy but calls the win "a short step in the right direction".
Meanwhile, in the Times Christopher Martin-Jenkins thinks Vaughan’s performances will be crucial if England are to build on the success.
A dramatic change of the order will have to be considered for next winter if Vaughan does not regain his authority, namely for him to drop down to No 6, as many a captain has effectively done in the autumn of his career, among them Garry Sobers, Clive Lloyd and Allan Border. That would enable Ian Bell to have another shot at imposing his class at first wicket down.