Napier test preview

Cricinfo have published some stats to cheer us up before the first test. The numbers game column has analysed New Zealand second innings scores and has unsurprisingly concluded that we are rubbish in the second dig - averaging less than half our first innings score in games since 2003. And if you scroll down to the bottom of this article you will also find another disturbing set of statistics, in ODIs since 2003 New Zealand has a) scored less runs in the last 10 overs than any of the other major sides and b) scored less runs overall than any of the other major sides. Not that this really belongs in a test preview, but it is disturbing news nonetheless.

Having cheered us up with that kind of analysis, Cricinfo has then published a preview which cheerfully points out all the holes in the side - no top order, no bowlers, that kind of thing. They also tell us the exciting news that Ian O'Brien has been made 12th man, meaning Kyle Mills' dismal performances in Australia earlier this season have been rewarded with another test cap.

The media does have some good news for you though, the weather. Sunny, warm and scheduled to stay that way. And despite all the other doom and gloom, I am feeling kinda upbeat. This could be a good contest. Sri Lanka have some brilliant batsmen, but swing and seam could be their undoing. And while Chaminda Vaas is always a handful on greenish wickets, the rest of the bowling line-up is not going to send shivers through New Zealand spines.