I am a firm believer in the old adage that proper preparation prevents poor performance. If you don't prepare properly for Test cricket, you run the risk of setting off on the wrong foot. In two of the three Tests in New Zealand, England were bundled out for less than 205 in their first innings, meaning they were not able to get into a position where they could dominate the game. The batsmen haven't performed well enough and that is the main reason why we haven't been able to win the series. England came in to the first Test having only played one first-class match. They did not look as if they were mentally in the zone for Test cricket as they were bowled out for 167 on a belter of a pitch, before New Zealand raced to 131-0 on the first day's play.The Surrey batsman and the Nottinghamshire off-spinner are two of the best in the world at what they do. England are quite rightly doing everything they can to get them fit for the summer. As I have said before, I believe the tour itinerary should always have at least two first-class matches before a series so that everyone in the squad gets at least one game under their belts leading into the Test series. Equally, if you missed out in one game, you have a chance of performing in the other.
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