NZ vs ENG | Would be nice to get that first hundred on this trip, says Joe Denly

Although he was the batsman England moved around in the batting order during the Ashes, Denly managed to play all five Tests and notch up 312 runs. Perhaps his most crucial innings in the longest format of the game came in the final Test at the Oval, where he put together a well-composed 94. Sure enough, missing out on his maiden Test ton was disappointing, but Denly believes he has come out on the other side of a tough battle against the Aussies a much better batsman.

"It was disappointing not to get three figures, but I was dropped on nought and I could have had an lbw shout against me as well. Playing in the Ashes, being exposed to those bowlers, I've come out of it a more confident player, and I certainly feel a lot more comfortable within this batting line-up now. It would be nice to get that first Test hundred on this trip. I'm feeling pretty good out in the middle," Denly said on the sidelines of the practice match against New Zealand A, reported Cricbuzz.

The 94 ensured that he retained his spot in the Test squad for the series against the Kiwis, but an ankle injury just prior to the five-match T20I series had him worried if he’d recover in time. 

"I was very disappointed when (I got injured) just before the T20 series. When I first did it I was probably thinking my tour was over. It was pretty nasty, a tough one to take, and it always touch and go to get ready for this game (against New Zealand A).

"I think I was pretty lucky not to do serious damage and that we have the best treatment here with the England doctors and physios. It's settled down nicely. There's no discomfort. The running between the wickets and playing all the shots feels fine. It's just a case of monitoring it and making sure it doesn't swell up. One thing (time out injured) does do is make you hungry to get out there and play, so thankfully I was able to do that and spend time in the middle." Denly said.

He missed out on a rare opportunity to showcase his T20 skills — especially in the absence of a few regulars — Denly remains hopeful of getting another shot ahead of next year's World T20. 

"Certain individuals played some incredible cricket (in the New Zealand T20s) and it was tough to watch but it's a great position for England to be in. There is still quite a bit of cricket before that T20 World Cup so hopefully I get another chance,” Denly added.