Bowlers must bat - Martin

Chris Martin claimed four wickets in the first Test match against Australia

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New Zealand took 20 wickets in the first Test against Australia but their bowlers realise they will also need to contribute with the bat if they are to triumph in the second Test at Adelaide Oval.

The entire Black Caps’ line-up struggled for runs at the Gabba but the quick collapse of the lower order did not help their cause.

Australia’s bottom four batsmen contributed 103 runs over two innings while New Zealand’s tail managed just 30.

It is a significant difference in a low-scoring game and one the tourists want to rectify, according to opening bowler Chris Martin.

"We were completely out-batted with the tail as well and it’s something we’ve been speaking about in the last few days, just to show a little bit more guts and a little bit more composure at the crease," he said.

"I don’t think as a bottom four we really put our best foot forward in that game and for us to have some recognised batsmen to bat with is something we are all looking forward to."

Increasing run tallies will not be an easy objective for Martin who is firmly entrenched at number 11 of the batting order.

During his 44-game career, he averages just 2.3 with the bat and was bowled for one in both innings of the first Test.

Martin is a self-confessed bunny but has not given up on batting altogether.

"I’m not particularly good at it so I suppose anything you are not too good at you don’t enjoy it as much," he said ahead of the second Test, which gets under way on Friday.

"I’m not proud of it. I also know that a guy with the ball in his hand is probably only giving himself six balls to get me. It’s something I need to work on and something that is getting a little bit embarrassing for me at the moment."

Former team-mate Craig McMillan offered tips to him earlier in his career but the words of wisdom had little impact.

"His attitude was for me to play a few more shots which hasn’t quite worked out for me. But as I get along in years maybe that’s going to be an option to give the crowd and myself a little bit of entertainment," he said.

His batting woes aside, Martin can be pleased with his bowling efforts. He left the Gabba with match figures of 4-111, which included three key wickets in the second innings.