Moores' tribute to Broad

Lower-order runs key for England coach

Last updated: 9th June 2008

Moores' tribute to Broad

Moores: Broad fan

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Coach Peter Moores is hoping England's lower order can continue to improve after their hard work bore fruit in the final Test against New Zealand.

Stuart Broad and James Anderson both made Test-best scores with the former playing his part in a crucial 76-run stand with Tim Ambrose that took the game away from the Kiwis.

Broad is already averaging more than 30 in Tests and his prowess with the bat will always be a factor when selection becomes an issue, while Anderson proved more than just a tail-ender with his innings of 28 in Nottingham.

Moores paid tribute to the pair, along with batting coach Andy Flower, who has recognised the importance of runs down the order and has focused on improving the bowlers' skills with the bat.

"Having lower-order players batting well increases your options," said the coach.

Worked tirelessly

"I was really pleased in this Test for Anderson getting runs, partly because he's worked really hard on it and also for Andy (Flower), who has worked tirelessly with all the lower order knowing that in a tight game those guys can often make a big difference.

"All those guys being able to bat makes a big difference because it's the partnerships they create with other people and it's a good sign for us.

"I think his (Broad's) batting is probably at the right place at the moment," he continued. "What he's done is show all the way through his international exposure that he can handle pressure.

"I think we saw that at Old Trafford against India in a one-dayer when he took us home with Bopara. We hear a lot about players being a bit robotic and not thinking, but Stuart is definitely a thinking cricketer.

"He has game awareness, he feels situations and reacts to them and that's a really good thing to have in your side, especially in such a young man.

"He's learning really quickly and he's up for a fight which is a good trait.

"He's developing quickly as a batter and he's got some challenges to come, but he's shown at the moment that he's got a good, simple gameplan, a basic technique and a decent presence of mind so he can play. It's promising for us in the balance of the team."