Black Caps to keep faith for decider

Major underdogs before the start of the series, New Zealand surprised the tourists with a comprehensive 189 runs first Test victory at Hamilton only for England to win just as comfortably in the second Test at Wellington to set-up a series decider at McLean Park.

"There are options open to us, but we want to give these guys a decent chance," stressed coach John Bracewell.

Both opener Matthew Bell (48 runs) and Mathew Sinclair (58 runs) have struggled during the series and their places are both under threat from all-rounder Grant Sinclair, who offers potential with the bat and provides back-up to the seamers with his medium-pace.

"They're playing on pretty good surfaces, against good bowlers, it's a pretty good challenge for them we need to make sure they are the right or not the right people before you start the revolving door," added Bracewell.

"We haven't discussed last chances with the selectors. The feedback from the selectors was they'd like to continue with the same unit and have some continuity.

"I was pleased with Mathew's approach to the last Test. He made a couple of mistakes but that's a harsh reality of Test cricket - I think his intent was good and I expect him to get runs in this next Test."

All-rounder Jacob Oram has also struggled with the bat, scoring only 48 runs during the opening two Tests, but Bracewell has been pleased with the progress of opener Jamie How and emerging middle order batsman Ross Taylor.

How fell only eight runs short of a century in the first Test while Taylor has excelled, claiming a century and two-half-centuries from his four innings.

"I think we're making some progress, Jamie How has done some really good work, technically with Mark O'Neill (batting coach), he's playing a lot straighter," added Bracewell. "Ross Taylor has adjusted from the Twenty20 whack across the line to playing quite deadly straight. That's good work being put in by our specialist coaches, there's some progress being made."