Strauss - A special day

Centurion admits relief after crucial ton following barren run

Last updated: 24th March 2008

Andrew Strauss England v New Zealand walking off in Napier

Strauss: Career-best score in Napier

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Andrew Strauss admitted he was a relieved man after hitting his first century in 31 Test innings to put England in charge of the series decider in Napier.

The Middlesex left-hander hit an unbeaten 173 - his highest Test score and first ton since August 2006 - and Ian Bell struck 110 as England posted 416-5 to lead by 501 runs with two days remaining.

Strauss finally repaid the England selectors' faith after they reinstated him for the tour and stuck by him after he had scored just 97 runs in the first two matches.

"It was a relief when I got that hundred away - it was a long while coming," Strauss told Sky Sports. "It was a pretty special day for me.

"There was quite a lot of tension there and quite a lot of relief - it was a pretty big one to get under my belt."

Inhibited

Strauss insisted speculation about his future in the side had only made him more determined to make the most of every opportunity to play for his country.

"When I got left out of the side in Sri Lanka (last winter) there was no point in thinking I'll be fine for the future so I try to enjoy every Test match I play in," he added.

"I wasn't thinking about what was around the corner.

"It was a question of backing yourself and that is one thing we have been shy of this series - we have all been a bit inhibited."

The 31-year-old also pointed out that England had no intention of declaring before the end of the day to have a bowl at the Kiwis.

Declaration

Strauss is likely to return to the crease in the morning along with Tim Ambrose to add to the already massive lead.

"I think there was the question of playing them completely out of the game, trying to remain positive and see where we are in the morning," Strauss added.

"It is one of those wickets where if you get past the first 10 to 15 overs there is not much in it for the bowlers but there is a huge difference batting 500-odd behind than trying to set a total."