Play straight, be great' – England advised to seek a draw against New Zealand
BBC Sport • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 19, 2026, 6:37 PM
Last updated Jun 19, 2026
In the second Test against New Zealand at The Oval, England trails by 352 runs with two days remaining. Former captains Alistair Cook and Michael Vaughan advise the team to focus on securing a draw rather than chasing an unattainable target. Their analysis emphasizes the importance of playing conservatively to weather the remaining time. The match continues with England needing to play strategically to avoid a potential defeat.
- •England trails New Zealand by 352 runs at The Oval.
- •Two days remain in the second Test match.
- •Alistair Cook and Michael Vaughan recommend playing for a draw.
- •England aims to avoid an aggressive chase strategy.
- 6:37 PMBBC Sport — 'Play straight, be great' - Why England must play for draw - Analysis
"Former England captains Alistair Cook and Michael Vaughan both believe England have to play for the draw in the remaining two days of the second Test, and not be tempted to try and chase a big target with the hosts currently trailing New Zealand by 352 runs at The Oval.
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