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Skipper Vaughan pays tribute to match winner Strauss

26/05/2008

Michael Vaughan has hailed Andrew Strauss' resilience after the Middlesex batsman's ton guided England to a six wicket win over New Zealand.

Strauss hit 106, his second century in three Tests, to help England chase a fourth innings record of 294 at Old Trafford.

The batsman's place in the side was under serious threat after a patchy series in New Zealand in March.

Vaughan praised Strauss for responding in perfect style to questions about his worth to the team.

"When you are chasing that kind of total you always have stages when the opposition is on top," Vaughan told Sky Sports.

"To come back and show that character and resistance we hope we can build on that.

"Andrew Strauss is growing with confidence all the time. It's a tremendous 100 and one that got us over the line.

"The pitch allows both teams to play that kind of cricket."

The win means England remain unbeaten at Old Trafford with four Test wins and a draw.

Meanwhile, Kiwis skipper Daniel Vettori rued his side's second innings display when they were skittled out for 114.

The tourists also failed to make any inroads with the ball on the fourth day wicket, as they snatched defeat from the jaws of victory.

"All the things that go to winning the game, all the things contributed to where we are now," Vettori said.

"Probably we didn't help ourselves with some of our shot selection.

"We still have a chance to draw this series, we are going to hurt for a long time."