Collingwood backs batsmen

Paul Collingwood enjoys the Napier sun © Getty Images

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Paul Collingwood believes England have made the right decision to keep their top order intact as they attempt to wrap up a series victory over New Zealand in the final Test.

England’s selectors reacted to defeat in the opening Test by replacing seam stalwarts Matthew Hoggard and Steve Harmison with youngsters James Anderson and Stuart Broad.

It was a tactic which worked with both Anderson and Broad impressing to help the tourists level the series in Wellington.

Wicketkeeper Tim Ambrose claimed his maiden Test hundred at the Basin Reserve but Collingwood was the last member of the top six to reach three figures in the first innings - against West Indies at Chester-le-Street eight Tests ago.

Despite their difficult run over the last six months, Collingwood believes England have been correct to keep faith with the top six.

“I think with the records they have they’ve proved they can play in whatever conditions,” stressed Collingwood.

“I think we’re one big ton away from hopefully opening the floodgates and it’s up to one of us to go out there and do that.

Tim Ambrose celebrates his century in the second Test

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“I can’t get past 60 at the moment, which is a bit frustrating, but you’d probably take that when you start an innings off. I would obviously like to go on and get that big score - I feel it’s just around the corner.”

Every member of England’s top six began the series with a Test average over 40 - usually the mark of a good Test player - yet have scored only six half-centuries between them in the four innings so far.

And the selectors' handling of Harmison and Hoggard has put the batting unit on notice to perform quickly or they may suffer the same fate.

“There are always going to be players waiting in the wings and that’s obviously healthy for the England cricket team,” said Collingwood.

“As long as we win Test matches, and that’s what we did last, hopefully we’ll stick together as a batting unit and keep developing.

“Nobody’s position is safe in the side, but it’s always been the same.

“It’s not because the new selectors have come in and they’ve suddenly become very ruthless. It’s always been the case that you have to do your job in the England side or your position is in doubt.”