WHEN England and New Zealand enter the field at Lords' this morning, the curtain will raise on another exciting summer of international cricket.
But while the prospect of a double Ashes series is impossible to ignore, Alistair Cook and his men must focus on the job at hand.
After a disappointing show in New Zealand – where former Cleethorpes CC man Peter Fulton was one of a number of thorns in their side – England will be hoping for revenge against their enigmatic opponents.
In many ways, their below par display over the winter will serve as an incentive to recapture the edge that saw them claim world number one status.
And with the likes of Joe Root ready to make his mark on the biggest stage of them all, England should be able to rely on fresh hunger and desire in their new quest to top the pile.
It would be easy to single Root out as the foremost example of that promise, but after an impressive start to his international career, the Yorkshire man represents tradition in a sport now encapsulated by modern invention.
Twenty20 cricket has undoubtedly allowed the game to progress, but the core values of Test cricket remain the same.
Tipped for a bright future since his early years, Root echoes Michael Vaughan in terms of aesthetics, but has the potential to surpass yet another White Rose legend – Sir Geoffrey Boycott – in his overall impact.
Suggestions that Root will eventually top England's all- time batting chart are perhaps a little premature, but they are not untoward.
And in the absence of injured star Kevin Pietersen, he will take on an important role this summer.
Starting with two Tests against New Zealand, Andy Flower's men will then face Australia – home and away – in ten consecutive five-day matches either side of the ICC Champions Trophy at home.
A heavy schedule will mean at least one thing, England will have to be prepared to rotate if they are to mount a successful challenge on all fronts.
However, they should not take the touring Black Caps lightly and, after last time, I'm sure that they wont.
Indeed, New Zealand are an unpredictable team that offer a range of contrasting threats throughout their line-up.
On one hand there is Fulton, who is prepared to work hard and grind out his runs. And on the other, captain Brendan McCullum and Ross Taylor have the ability to take a game away from any side.
In that respect, the home of cricket should be able to host a thrilling start to what could be another historic year for the England cricket team.
Keep track of England and Peter Fulton's progress by logging on at www.thisisgrimsby.co.uk/sport
