Trent Boult believes England will be able to cope with the distraction of their social media storm when they face New Zealand in the decisive second Test on Thursday.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
England's Ollie Robinson was suspended after racist and sexist tweets posted by the paceman in 2012 and 2013 emerged during the first Test at Lord's.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The controversy escalated on Monday when the England and Wales Cricket Board revealed they were investigating a second unidentified England player for posting "historic offensive material" on social media.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
British Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden criticised the ECB's hardline stance as the row rumbled on.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
But the spotlight will be on Joe Root's side, who stood together in a 'moment of unity' against all forms of discrimination just before the Robinson news broke.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Asked if the issue would put England at a disadvantage when they face New Zealand at Edgbaston, Black Caps seamer Boult said: "I don't think they will be too distracted. There are a few things going on the sidelines.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
"I'm sure they will be on the ball. They will be desperate to put in a good performance.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
"These guys have played a lot of cricket. They are tremendous at home. I think they can put those things on the sideline and focus on the game."<\/p>\r\n\r\n
While he would not criticise Robinson, Boult admitted cricketers must be careful what they say on social media with the eyes of the world on them at all times.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
"I can't speak for the other guys but social media can be a difficult world at the moment," Boult told reporters.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
"You can approach anyone around the world. In terms of our profession as sports people you are in the limelight non-stop. You have to be careful with what you are putting out there I suppose.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
"We are obviously leaders in the world, role models for a lot of kids and fans around the world. There is a lot of accountability. It's a tricky one, you have to very careful."<\/p>\r\n\r\n
After the drawn opening match, New Zealand can earn a first Test series win in England since 1999 if they emerge victorious at Edgbaston.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
That would be the ideal preparation ahead of their clash with India in the inaugural World Test Championship final at Southampton from June 18.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
"There is an opportunity to win a Test series in England. It's been a long time. Looking forward to the challenge," Boult said.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
"I thought the guys played tremendously well at Lord's. The boys are gelling nicely and hopefully it will be a big week."<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Boult missed the first Test after opting to spend time with his family following the Indian Premier League's suspension.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The 31-year-old is expected to start in Birmingham after joining the squad late last week.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
"I'm here now and excited at the prospect of playing. I'm dying to get out there," Boult said.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
"I've been playing non-stop through the New Zealand summer and the IPL. The body feels good."<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Black Caps coach Gary Stead said skipper Kane Williamson's left elbow injury is being monitored and a decision will be made on Wednesday about his availability.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Williamson, the world's number one ranked Test batsman, has been managing a tendon problem for several months and could be rested ahead of the India showdown.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
"His elbow is still niggling him a wee bit. He's had some more treatment on that and we just want to make sure the best thing for him is playing this match versus taking a little more time to be ready," said Stead, who also revealed spinner Mitchell Santner is out with a cut finger.
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