Bell Eager for Ashes Momentum

England batsman Ian Bell, is hoping that a stong performance from the side in the upcoming three test series with New Zealand, will provide a sold platform, for the back to back Ashes Series coming up later in 2013...

Once March comes to a close, all eyes will start to move to early July, when England meet Australia for ten mouth matering test matches.

Before that however, England have to get past New Zealand, both far away from England's shores, and then also a mini home series in May.

Bell though, still knows not to undestimate the Kiwi's, despite their recent poor showing in the longest form of the game.

"Playing in New Zealand can be tough. We have to play well to win." the Warwickshire batsman told BBC Sport.

"We know that it doesn't matter who you play against in Test cricket, five days of real hard work is in front of us to win any Test match against anyone in any part of the world. That's why Test cricket is so rewarding when you win. "We are ready for that hard work." Bell went on.

The return of ex Kiwi skipper Ross Taylor, will boost the home side, and might help to add some supporters to the gate, and Bell admitted "There are some world-class players in that New Zealand team and we are going to have to play some really good cricket to beat them."

Tests: Dunedin (6-10 March), Wellington (14-18 Mar), Auckland (22-26 Mar)