England woes won't distract New Zealand

New Zealand can't afford to be distracted by the turmoil in England cricket heading into their Test series according to batsman Ross Taylor.

The Black Caps on Monday completed the first training session of their seven-week tour at Lord's, the venue for the first Test starting on May 21. Four-day games against Somerset and Worcestershire will precede the two-Test series.

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Taylor was peppered with questions about England's problems after their Test series in the West Indies finished 1-1.

Image Id: ~/media/2E5265BDAA9146A08412B3BB83AC34EARoss Taylor will be a key part of New Zealand's plans to topple England // Getty Images

England collapsed in the second innings to lose the third Test in Barbados by five wickets on Sunday, throwing uncertainty over the make-up of their team.

Coach Peter Moores' job is under threat, while captain Alastair Cook still has his detractors despite a century in Barbados.

The retirement of batsman Jonathan Trott on Monday may trigger further calls for the inclusion of rogue batsman Kevin Pietersen.

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Taylor felt England would be keen to set things right after their Caribbean woes, following on from their group stage exit at the World Cup.

"They'll have even more motivation, coming off a loss against the West Indies - I'm sure they'll be looking forward to getting home and doing what needs to be done," Taylor said.

"We can't be distracted by that. England in their home conditions will be very tough and we haven't had a lot of success here recently."

Many of New Zealand's tour squad were involved in the heavy 2-0 series loss in 2013.

Image Id: ~/media/AA1723F7ECF94660B5417A87223A7A56New Zealand had a disappointing tour of England in 2013 // Getty Images

That England team didn't feature Pietersen but Taylor said he wouldn't be surprised if the 34-year-old was recalled, despite a divisive reputation enhanced by a biography which criticised England teammates and management.

"I can't see why not. He's up there as one of the highest run-scorers for England (8181 runs).

"I've played with Kevin in a few teams and he's a very strong competitor and a world-class player. Any team with Kevin Pietersen is going to be a very strong opposition."

Taylor says it is important the Black Caps put the dizzying run to the World Cup final in March behind them.

Playing away from home and returning to first class cricket will help that process.

"We did have a great six or seven weeks back home but it is time to move on a little bit."