David Lloyd Bumble at the Test: England battle was heroic but they must now show authority

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What a match! England battling for survival like a boxer on the ropes and New Zealand looking for a rare victory. And what a scalp it would have been! It was a pity the majority of the fans were from the UK because the home side deserved more support. It was compelling. And what odds would you have got on England winning in India but failing to win a Test here?

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On the ropes: Matt Prior and Monty Panesar walk off the field after battling England to an unlikely draw

The drama mustn’t hide the fact that throughout this series England have had a battle not only with New Zealand but also themselves. They’ve played without authority, purpose and energy. To illustrate the point, Monty Panesar is experienced with 168 Test wickets but he was hit for 12 sixes. His counterpart Bruce Martin, with just three Tests, was hit for one six.

Lack of authority: The experienced Panesar was hit for 12 sixes by New Zealand

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Will England now look at this as a five-match series against New Zealand, 0-0 with two to play at Lord’s and Headingley in May? It will be played with a different ball — the English Duke rather than Australian Kookaburra — but New Zealand have shown they will be no pushovers any more. I hope this really ignites interest in the return series.

Close-run: The series, with Rutherford celebrating Anderson's dismissal, bodes well for the May's return Tests

What do England need to improve on this performance? They have to get back to playing with a little bit of arrogance. Look to boss the game more, show more confidence. I’m talking particularly about the batters. It’s like a solid engine needs a major service. I don’t expect any changes given that Kevin Pietersen comes straight back in. Just do better with what we have.

Arrogance needed: England, with Trott, Cook and Anderson (L-R) need to do better with their talent

I have major concerns for the IPL which starts in a week’s time. Some major players are pulling out. Kevin Pietersen with his knee won’t be with the Delhi Dipsticks and Brendon McCullum must be a major doubt for the Kolkata Night Shifters with his dodgy hamstring. And then there’s Michael Clarke’s back. I hope the teams have good insurance policies. Nice work if you can get it!

Out of action: Kevin Pietersen is one of a number of big-name stars to pull out of the upcoming IPL with injury

  More... Prior the hero as England save the series with just one wicket to spare in New Zealand LIVE: New Zealand v England - the action as it happens on the final day of the third Test It was great fun! Auckland hero Prior says spirit of 2009 inspired England rearguard It was nerve-racking and I couldn't watch the last 18 balls, admits captain Cook