Strauss hoping to re-live Test debut
A rejuvenated Andrew Strauss will use the memory of his England debut to inspire him in the opening Test of the summer against New Zealand. The Middlesex bastman was called in to the side to face the Black Caps at short notice in 2004 following a knee injury to Michael Vaughan.
He proceeded to hit a superb hundred in the first innings at Lord's before being run out in the second by then-skipper Nasser Hussain just 17 runs short of another ton.
After a slump in form last summer he was dropped for the winter tour to Sri Lanka before returning to the side to hit a match-winning 177 in the final Test against New Zealand.
But it is his opening international appearance that has been motivating him ahead of Thursday's clash with the Black Caps at the home of cricket.
"Over the last week or so I have had a chance to think about what happened four years ago and to this day it is still pretty inspiring to think about it," Strauss said.
"It's an event I can look back on in my life and find quite motivating. I'm trying to reconnect with that state of mind."
The 31-year-old is expected to return to the top of the England order with Vaughan dropping down to three.
The 46-times capped left-hander is more than happy to accommodate his captain's wishes.
He said: "It's something I have done for the majority of my career. I am more comfortable opening than at number three because I've got more experience there.
"Missing out on Sri Lanka gave me an opportunity to step back and every time I have been involved in the England team since I have been determined to enjoy the occasion.
"I feel as refreshed and enthusiastic and as motivated as I have at any time in my career."
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