Remarkable turnaround after Auckland despair

Last week I predicted what I thought would be a very interesting last day of the first Test in Auckland.

Little did I know that New Zealand would lose their last nine wickets for 26 runs!

I still haven't found the words to describe what unfolded in front of me a week ago but the turnaround by New Zealand to this, the second Test, has been nothing short of remarkable.

The aftermath of the first Test saw allegations from the public that the result hadn't seemed to have hurt the CLEAR Black Caps how it should have.

I know for sure that Stephen Fleming and his team would have been hurting very bad after that result. But in sport the best reply is through performance.

I saw Flem lashed out at these stupid allegations and said he was gutted by what had happened and how could anyone in their right mind think the team would be feeling anything but hurt?

And he's right.

Matthew Bell and Mark Richardson are two men who love to bat. Both are meticulous in their preparation and in three innings together have shown they may provide an answer to what has been a big trouble area to the New Zealand team.

Early days yet but with more time together I think they can do it. In Matthew Bell's case he has developed a technique of his own.

While it looks different, it is proving effective but time will give the indicator to how successful it will be.

Now, Mathew Sinclair, what a performance from someone who once past 50, the opposition better get used to him staying at the crease for a while!

Once again Mathew has his own style and talk of him needing to move his feet more accompanies him everywhere. It poses an interesting dilemma.

Do you curb his natural talent and risk losing his strengths or, do you let his strengths stay in his natural approach?

He will work it out himself and averaging 50 in Test cricket, well there isn't too much wrong with that.

The more he plays, the more rounded his gamed will become and consistency, the measure all aspire to, will, become his companion.

Inzamam and Youhana also produced superb knocks and you'll see that there is no mention of bowlers at all this week and I have to say I feel for them on this very flat wicket.

It has so far been a batsman's paradise but the memory of Auckland and nine for 26 shows this game can turn on its head.

While New Zealand should bat out for the draw today on a pitch with no demons, last Monday will be in the minds somewhere and the New Zealanders need to get through today to exorcise it.