Fletcher sees the positive despite worries over Hussain

Though England will have been happy with their match position after the opening day of their game against a PCB XI, there is some concern over the performances of key members of the Test side.

Nasser Hussain, playing despite back and hand injuries, was keen to spend some time at the crease. His highest first-class score since the start of the English season remains 33, and his innings of 23 will have done little to reassure the doubters. But Duncan Fletcher was keen to stress the positive aspects of Hussain's performance. "He is different to the way he was during the summer," the England coach commented. "His feet weren't moving well then, and he didn't feel like he was batting well. But out here he's hitting the ball well, and his feet are moving well."

Fletcher also explained the decision for Hussain to open the batting: "We wanted Nasser to open the innings and get out there because sometimes when you're batting three you can quite often get in there early -- so there's not that much difference."

"He wanted to get in and get going and he looked impressive. His feet were moving well; his balance was good -- but he just got one that swung and left him. He's just got to make sure he gets a good innings out in the middle, and you would like it in these warm-up games."

Ian Salisbury's bowling form is causing worries too. He went wicketless in the first Test, and was out-bowled by Giles throughout. Again today he was unable to take a wicket, but Fletcher stressed the importance of keeping calm. "It was the kind of wicket which wasn't really helpful to spinners," Fletcher said. "I just hope he's not getting too anxious, which can happen sometimes when you're not getting wickets. He could have got one or two in the Test, and by not getting them I just hope he's not trying too hard."

There was good news in the performance of Matthew Hoggard. He swung the ball at a decent pace and has ensured that he is next in line for a Test place, should one become available.

"Hoggard has bowled twice on this tour very impressively," Fletcher agreed. "It's nice to see a young guy making sure the established players are sticking to their tasks. He's giving warning to the other bowlers that they have to perform."