Cricket: England struggle against pink ball

England batsman Mark Stoneman leaves the field after being dismissed for the second time in a day. Photo / Getty

Getting it right against the pink ball is a priority for England's batsmen after a shaky pre-Test batting display against a New Zealand XI.

Batting coach Graham Thorpe wasn't impressed by the tourists' efforts in a two- day practice match at Seddon Park as they prepare for the day-night Test against the Black Caps starting next Thursday in Auckland.

England lost 14 wickets for 319 runs, with Liam Livingstone - who is unlikely to feature in the two-Test series - top-scoring with 88.

A host of other Test regulars failed, in some cases twice, as they were allowed to bat throughout the day. Skipper Joe Root mustered an unbeaten 50 in his second turn at bat.

Thorpe says it was a valuable experience for his batsmen after the New Zealand XI posted 376-10 on the first day.

"The first two sessions were indifferent for us, but it was about getting the guys up to speed and making them aware they've got a Test next week," Thorpe told Sky Sports.

"It's the challenge of a short Test tour.

"A few of them will be disappointed they didn't spend longer at the crease, but Liam Livingstone played very well."

Thorpe confirmed Livingstone is still a long shot to make his Test debut in Auckland, or Christchurch.

"He's not in the potential starting XI," he added.

"But he's shown the head coach what he's capable of, and that's what you want.

"His innings is also a kick up the backside for the other players."

The teams will play a second practice match at Seddon Park, on Friday and Saturday, this time with a red ball and more orthodox playing hours.

The match is expected to feature England allrounder Ben Stokes, who missed the pink ball hit-out with a back niggle.