Bell, Broad might be better candidates than Cook to lead England: Vaughan

LONDON - Michael Vaughan has said that opener Alastair Cook is not certain to take over from Andrew Strauss as England captain, and added that Ian Bell or all-rounder Stuart Broad might be better candidates than Cook.

Cook, 25, is regarded by England’s management as 33- year-old Strauss’ heir apparent and is now vice-captain of the team.

His prospects have been enhanced by his run-laden start to the Ashes tour in which he scored 450 runs in the first two Tests, The Sun reports.

Vaughan said: “Cook has been talked about as Strauss’ successor almost since he broke into the team and one can see why. But it’s anyone’s guess how long Strauss will stay in the job - at the moment the team are going through a purple patch and Strauss is playing well.

“If, by the time he decides to call it a day, Cook is out of the side or his place is under pressure, the ECB may decide to look elsewhere.”

Vaughan, writing on his blog for betting exchange Betfair, said: “Ian Bell has become increasingly confident with a good tactical brain whilst Stuart Broad is an integral part of the side and has the type of strong personality to deal with the pressures of the job.” (ANI)