Flower stamps his influence

England's decision to leave out big names like Michael Vaughan, Ian Bell and Steve Harmison for the first Test against West Indies shows Andy Flower is no respecter of reputations or seniority, says Vic Marks in the Guardian.

It feels as if both Bell and Harmison ... have been kept in detention. A couple of good games for their counties in April are not enough for two of England's most exasperating cricketers to trot easily back into the team. They have been challenged to put together an unanswerable case for a recall. Nor are Michael Vaughan's fine words enough to get him back in the squad. He needs runs. Flower – and Strauss – have sent out a message that a new regime is in charge now.

In the Times, Michael Atherton also feels the shake-up in the squad is a strong message from Flower and the selectors.