Coach credits Cook
Andy Flower said on Tuesday that England captain Alastair Cook deserved credit for his tactics after leading the side to an Ashes series win over Australia, despite criticism of his field placings and declarations.
Cook has enjoyed some notable triumphs as England captain since taking over from his now retired former opening partner Andrew Strauss, including a series win in India last year and now steering the side to an unbeatable 3-0 lead over Australia with a Test to spare.
The 28-year-old Cook has, however, been criticised by former players, notably Australia greats Ian Chappell and Shane Warne, for being an excessively cautious captain when it comes to declarations and for a lack of imagination in his field placings.
The Essex left-hander's style has been contrasted unfavourably with the bold approach of Australia captain Michael Clarke.
England paceman Stuart Broad inevitably hogged most of Tuesday's headlines after a stunning spell of six wickets for 20 runs in 45 balls on Monday saw him to Test-best match figures of 11 for 121.
But England coach Flower highlighted Cook's role in bringing back Tim Bresnan on Monday's fourth afternoon, with the Yorkshire seamer taking the key wicket of well-set opener David Warner soon afterwards.
"It was nice being part of that afternoon session where Broad and Cook turned things around for us," said Flower.
"Cook's captaincy has been excellent: strong in the dressing room and out in the field."
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