Ollie Robinson: Test memory as England bowler meets Brendon McCullum and Rob Key

England are expected to name their squad for the New Zealand series in mid-May, with the first Test starting on June 4, and much focus will be on their bowling options.

Last summer, Chris Woakes joined fellow recent retirees Stuart Broad and James Anderson in leaving the Test scene, while the injured Mark Wood, who managed just 11 overs in this winter’s opening Ashes Test, was yet to recover from a knee injury before being ruled out of the series.

With Brayden Karsem injured, Jofra Archer playing in the Indian Premier League and Matthew Potts struggling in the Ashes in Sydney, Gus Atkinson and Josh Mlas are the only two locked into the Test squad.

That leaves room for Robinson, who combines his height and strength, to return to the team as England’s leading striker.

Essex’s Sam Cooke – who won one Test with Zimbabwe last summer – is also a strong contender, while 23-year-old Hampshire quick Sonny Baker, who has clocked 92mph this season, could be the left-field option.

Reflecting on his injury record, off-field issues and relationship with McCullum and Stokes, Robinson said: “My mind is on nothing but cricket. I’ve got the passion back for the game.

“I probably feel more prepared than when I came into the England team, and maybe a little bit since then. If I get the call, I hope everyone will help me.

“I have no problem (with McCullum and Stokes) – I never have to be honest. A few things happened in India… I don’t know what they were actually. We never checked anything.

“Whatever the message from Buzz and the call from Keysy suggests, the door is open and try to get it done and come back.”