Can Cook confound his critics?

Alastair Cook, England's ODI captain, has come in for criticism for his style of play in the shorter format and some of that has been unfair, writes Stephen Brenkley in the Independent on Sunday. He says he has the character to hit back with his performances on the field.

Cook is so resolute that he might very well confound his critics, though he would never say so. He is not the only batsman who invites rumination. Jonathan Trott has been prolific,but in reaching double figures for the 10th consecutive time in Leeds, a run that has included six fifties, he was not busy enough. His overall strike- rate of almost 80 partly defies hiscritics, but he has to take a game by the scruff.

Steve James, in the Daily Telegraph, agrees Cook has the makings of a successful ODI captain.

James Anderson, in the Mail on Sunday, says any squabbles or differences between players on the field at an error or a dropped catch only show how determined England are to win.

In the Observer, Vic Marks says England must be prepared to adapt if Lord's provides a run-friendly pitch like Headingely did.