Bell over Cook for England captain?
A line of succession has been seemingly ordained in English cricket, observes Stephen Brenkley in the Independent : Andrew Strauss is the Test captain and when he abdicates, the job will pass on to Alastair Cook, with Stuart Broad the next
Akhila Ranganna
25-Feb-2013
A line of succession has been seemingly ordained in English cricket, observes Stephen Brenkley in the Independent: Andrew Strauss is the Test captain and when he abdicates, the job will pass on to Alastair Cook, with Stuart Broad the next nomination. However, in the past few months another member of the England team is laying claim to consideration.
It is not only Ian Bell's stature as a batsman that has altered. The view of him as a smart, intelligent cricketer who understands the nuances of the game, is tactically aware and bursting with ideas has gained in popularity.
There will probably be no change for two or three years, though sporting events can move rapidly. Cook is the intended successor, but he should not be anointed yet.
Akhila Ranganna is assistant editor (Audio) at ESPNcricinfo