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Strauss jubilant over 'special' century

27/05/2008

Andrew Strauss has expressed his joy at his match-winning century yesterday which inspired England to a six-wicket win over New Zealand at Old Trafford.

Strauss' 106 was crucial for England as they successfully chased down a record-breaking 294 in their fourth innings.

The England opener steadied the innings during Sunday afternoon and Monday morning and led his team to within 59 runs of victory.

The left-hander was overjoyed at the fact his luck appears to have turned and runs are now coming much more easily.

Strauss was top-scorer for England in both innings and his 12th Test hundred shows the opener has overcome being dropped for the recent Sri Lanka tour.

"I had a long period of time where I had played in every Test match and I'd probably forgotten a little bit how lucky I am and how enjoyable it is to play a Test match for England," he said.

"If ever I need a reminder of that, this Test match is a great reminder.

"Wins like this are just so special and when you're sitting by a fireside when you're retired, these are the sort of days you’ll really remember."

Strauss claims he felt totally at ease at the crease and wasn't looking to force anything.

"I haven't felt frustrated at any stage, even though at times it's taken me a long time to score my runs," he said.

"Form is that mystery thing and the only way to get it is by scoring runs, but that's not so easy when you're out of nick.

"All I know is that having been through a bad period of form it's really crucial to realise it when you're feeling alright and make sure you make hay when the sun shines.

"It's not often you get an opportunity to get a hundred in the fourth innings of a game to help win a game.

"It's a really special day for me but even more special for the team because we were under the pump for two days and we didn't play as good a brand of cricket as we'd like to."

England are now 1-0 up in the three-game series against New Zealand. The final Test is due to be played at Trent Bridge on June 5th.