By Jonathan Agnew BBC cricket correspondent at Lord's

Veteran paceman McGrath was again a thorn in England's side

The first Test was a chastening experience for the England team and its supporters.

All the hope and optimism that was expressed before a ball was bowled has been quickly replaced by criticism and anguish.

England have improved since their last meeting - of that there is no doubt - but the gulf between them and Australia remains.

Even when England had dismissed Australia for 190 in their first innings, we knew they had given away too many runs. Twenty-eight fours were struck in that innings, but it did not seem particularly to matter at the time.

However, it was firmly put into perspective by Glenn McGrath's brilliant spell of 5-2, and England were always up against it from that moment on.

Why England's fielding always seems to disintegrate when they play Australia remains a mystery

If McGrath and Warne stay fit throughout the series, England seem destined to struggle.

Already we have heard calls for changes to the batting order with pressure increasing for Michael Vaughan to return to opening the innings.

But if there is to be a change, it can only be for Kevin Pietersen to be promoted to number four, with Ian Bell moving to five.

Pietersen stood head and shoulders above every other batsman in the match. He imposes himself at the crease like no other I have ever seen - and bear in mind this was his Test debut.

Pietersen played his Hampshire colleague Warne with aplomb

He is unorthodox, plays extraordinary shots, and he intimidates bowlers - even Warne. It would be to England's benefit if he is given as much time at the crease as possible.

Bell needs persevering with because he has the makings of a very good Test player.

He was bamboozled by Warne and although he is not the first, he must - between now and Edgbaston - reassess how he is going to bat against him.

Playing no shot right in front of your stumps is clearly not the answer, and he must adopt a more positive approach.

Another area of concern is Geraint Jones' wicket-keeping. He is capable of taking breathtaking catches but, infuriatingly, he also drops straightforward ones.

Every chance has to be taken when you are up against Australia, and it is hardly surprising that England lost this match when you consider that they dropped a total of seven catches in the game.

Why England's fielding always seems to disintegrate when they play Australia remains a mystery, but it suggests nervousness, anxiety and a lack of confidence.

While that remains the case they can't hope to compete on level terms.