WHEN this series started in Auckland two weeks ago there was reason to suppose that England were marginally the stronger side. Nothing happened at Eden Park to dispel that notion but as the teams prepare for the second Test, starting in Wellington tomorrow, there are signs that, psychologically at least, New Zealand have stolen a march on their opponents.

England's defeat, by 90 runs against New Zealand A in Wanganui, was not a disaster in itself, even though such a loss was once unthinkable. Their heroic victory over West Indies in Barbados three years ago was immediately preceded by a similar embarrassment in Grenada.

The main worry in Wanganui was that after making such a positive start to their tour of New Zealand the poor attitude shown in Zimbabwe, which ultimately reduced that leg to a shambles, had returned like a persistent and rather nasty virus.

Those who have toured regularly will know that New Zealand imposes few sufferings but in Wanganui the players, taking their cue from the management, had a put-upon air about them, their fluent body language conveying the clear impression that they would rather have had red hot needles inserted in their eyes than play. Afterwards, Lloyd's airy dismissal of the defeat set the wrong tone for team and public alike and, coming after that frustrating final day in Auckland, a touring party lost its impetus.

Since then New Zealand have given the impression that they consider England are there for the taking and have made some bold selections for Wellington, although the brave choice of the 18-year-old left arm 5p inner Daniel Vettori, after just two first-class games, may have to be reviewed in the light of the ankle injury to Chris Cairns.

England also have an injury problem. The Yorkshire seamer Chris Silverwood is out of the match after having five stitches inserted in his right hand, between his thumb and first finger, following an accident in fielding.

England will retain their top six batsmen, and are likely to do the same with three bowlers, Dominic Cork, Darren Gough and Phil Tufnell. This leaves two places up for grabs, one between the all-rounders, Craig White and Robert Croft, and the other between the seamers Alan Mullally and Andrew Caddick.

England ultimately regretted not playing two spinners in Auckland and Croft is likely to play here. This leaves the more difficult choice between the two fast bowlers. England badly need to win a Test match. The good news for them is that New Zealand's new aggressive confidence is only paper thin. England can win here, particularly if, contrary to recent habit, they make a good start.