Removal Of Established Captain Can Unsettle The Team Dynamic: Cook

The upcoming Ashes series had to face a few controversies before it would commence. Former England captain Alastair Cook has spoken out on the subject — According to him, all of the outside criticism is something that no team wants to deal with before beginning on a mega-series such as Ashes.

It goes without saying that the Ashes frequently provoke elevated on-field quarrels. Unfortunately, even before the game begins, the teams are struggling with some bad circumstances. Tim Paine has announced his decision to depart as Australia’s Test captain. His choice was made in the midst of a sexting issue concerning a Tasmanian female colleague.

Paine’s absence will make Australia stronger: Cook

England, on the other extreme, has been subjected to allegations of systemic racism. The unavailability of a recognized captain is a concern for the squad. Cook also stated that this will change up the team chemistry.

“It is the kind of external noise that a team does not need going into such an important series. There has been speculation that Paine’s absence will make Australia stronger. It’s possible that his replacement… may be a better wicketkeeper-batsman but the removal of an established captain, in such circumstances, is a distraction that can only unsettle the team dynamic,” Cook said.

Pat Cummins has been named Australia’s next Test captain, with Steve Smith serving as his backup. After a long absence, the latter returns to the command of the business. He was previously excluded from having any type of leadership position as a result of the racism incident that occurred in South Africa in 2018.

Smith had earlier predicted that his selection would not be warmly received by some due to the negative buzz surrounding it. As a result, Australia’s former spin bowler Shane Warne has expressed his thoughts on Smith’s selection. He stated that the batter should not have been offered the position.

“His second chance is getting to play for Australia again and in my opinion announcing him as vice-captain opens up CA for ridicule and criticism,” Warne said.