England need to start playing some quality Test match cricket in New Zealand to win over the public. They need deeds and heroics on the field and not headlines of incidents in bars and nightclubs.

It is time Joe Root, as captain, stamped his authority on the team and that should start by our England cricketers cutting out sledging. Sledging is crude and ugly and sets a bad example to youngsters.

When Brendon McCullum became captain of New Zealand in 2012 he instilled in his players a no sledging policy. His view was just play cricket no matter what the provocation from the opposition. Well done, Brendon.

Although he has retired, and Kane Williamson has taken over the captaincy, New Zealand have continued to play cricket the right way. England should follow suit and play good tough, competitive, even aggressive cricket, but not with their mouths.

Joe Root could cut out England sledging this week and say this is how we will play from now on. Sadly many players and teams have got it into their heads that sledging is macho and enhances their performances. That is why Root and Trevor Bayliss are reluctant to tell the England team to cut it out in case it inhibits a player’s performances.