Monday 1 June 2015 11:26, UK
England have their backs to the wall in the second Test after New Zealand established a lead of 338 on day three at Headingley, says Sir Ian Botham.
BJ Watling (100no) became the first New Zealand player to make a Test century at the ground and, with support from Martin Guptill (70) and Brendon McCullum (55), powered the tourists to 338-6 after the teams finished level after the first innings.
With the highest successful run-chase at Headingley being Australia’s 404-3 against England in 1948, former all-rounder Botham told Sky Sports that New Zealand are in the box seat.
“It would be exceptional if England get to 350,” he said. “If the opposition get that many, it’s backs to the wall stuff so New Zealand will be very, very happy.
“I thought they played good cricket all day. They’ve really bossed the game. BJ Watling was magnificent, while McCullum played himself in – he wanted to occupy the crease.”
England – 253-5 overnight – lost took three wickets for six runs as Tim Southee (4-83) chipped away before Stuart Broad (46 off 39) and Mark Wood counter-attacked in a ninth-wicket partnership of 51.
Broad’s tally was his highest score in eight Tests since India seamer Varun Aaron broke his nose at the crease at Old Trafford last summer.
Reflecting on the morning session, Botham said: “New Zealand had England in trouble early on with the ball. England were scratching around, pushing at the ball.
“The batsmen were out feeling and prodding – they weren’t doing anything decisive. Ian Bell and Moeen Ali in particular were feeling for the ball outside of off stump.
“At that stage England were digging themselves a hole – they weren’t really going anywhere. They will sit back and think ‘should we have attacked a bit more?’
“It will have done Broad the world of good to get some runs because he’s looked woeful leading up to this innings.”
Wood (3-64) and Broad were also England’s standout performers with the ball but Botham felt that overall, the home side’s attack had bowled too short.
“You’ve got to think on your feet on a wicket like this,” he reflected.
“I will guarantee you – without looking at any statistics – that New Zealand bowled much fuller and straighter than England have in this game.
“That has been reflected in their figures and the position they are in now.
“I think set bowling plans can be a great idea but on a wicket like this I would suggest doing the basics. Try to hit the top of off stump and you’re not going to go far wrong.
“If you bowl that line consistently and you stay patient, you’ll get your rewards – as New Zealand have proved. Tim Southee and Trent Boult have looked very, very effective.”
Watch day four of the second Test between England and New Zealand from 10.30am on Monday on Sky Sports 2.
