Positive spin from Patel

Kiwis batsmen playing for places ahead of tour to England

Last updated: 24th March 2008

Jeetan Patel New Zealand bowling in the nets

Patel: Hoping to be heading to England next month

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Jeetan Patel believes New Zealand's batsmen need to follow the example of Andrew Strauss if they are to avoid defeat in the third Test.

The Middlesex left-hander finished day three in Napier on 173 not out, helping the tourists build a massive lead of 501.

As well as being his career-best score, Strauss' innings has also ended any speculation about his place in the team.

Now the Black Caps are preparing themselves for the tough task of trying to bat out time and stop their opponents from sealing the series.

With tour places on the line ahead of the return series in England, Patel believes the Kiwi batsmen must respond when under pressure - just like Strauss.

Tough day

"It was a tough day on a good wicket," he admitted to Sky Sports.

"Andrew Strauss played really well and showed what is capable on that wicket. Hopefully we can do the same in the next couple of days.

"There are a couple of (New Zealand) players who probably have their careers on the line, like Strauss did today.

"It was an amazing innings from him - it's probably got him another series at least.

"I think our guys realise that and have probably learnt a good lesson."

Tour hopes

Patel failed to pick up a wicket on the third day after dismissing Alastair Cook at the start of the tourists second innings.

The 27-year-old is playing in just his third Test and is hoping he has done enough throughout the series to book himself a seat on the plane heading to England next month.

"I train to play, fingers crossed I get a chance," he added.

"I'm always looking forward to any tour I get to go on. To get to go to England for the first time would be nice."