Drawn series, big wins, but England problems still remain

England‘s situation encapsulated by Gary Ballance (photo: Getty Images)

New Zealand catapulted themselves to victory at Headingley in the last match of their two-test series against England this week.  One game prior, at the revered Lord’s, they were brushed aside by 124 runs.

Social media was awash with fans giving New Zealand the upper hand headed into the first test. 

Cricket: England are being overcooked and then burnt

Alastair Cook‘s facial expression says it all (photo: The Mirror)

After a 95 run drubbing at the hands of India, and having not won any of their last 10 Tests, England are searching for answers that should have come six months ago.

Unfortunately, the management of the situation at the time, the Kevin Pietersen drama included, did not allow for the fresh overhaul that the England Cricket Board and on-field team needed.

Cricket: Where to now: Andrew Strauss

England cricketer Andrew Strauss (now former) stood down as England captain on Wednesday, retiring from all forms at the same time, effective immediately.  After suffering a 2-0 series loss to South Africa, Strauss knew that his time was near, speaking at a press conference in the UK.