Smarting from Graeme Swann’s comment that England does not have a chance of winning the 2015 World Cup, captain Alastair Cook has said the remarks from a ‘so-called’ friend are not helpful at this stage. ‘I don’t think it’s that helpful, especially from a so-called friend,’ Cook said after England’s 133-run defeat by India in the second ODI on Wednesday.
Speaking about England’s chances in the World Cup next year, Swann had said: ‘If he (Cook) truly believes England can win this World Cup . . . I am the greatest patriot there is but we do not have a cat in hell’s chance.’ Swann said Cook ‘shouldn’t be bothering playing one-day cricket’. ‘He’s entitled to his opinion, but it’s not ideal for me, especially when you get through the summer I’ve had,’ said Cook, who has had to resist calls to quit as England’s Test captain.
Speaking about England’s chances in the World Cup next year, Swann had said: ‘If he (Cook) truly believes England can win this World Cup . . . I am the greatest patriot there is but we do not have a cat in hell’s chance.’ Swann said Cook ‘shouldn’t be bothering playing one-day cricket’. ‘He’s entitled to his opinion, but it’s not ideal for me, especially when you get through the summer I’ve had,’ said Cook, who has had to resist calls to quit as England’s Test captain.