Cook hints at replacing Broad with Finn for Eden Test

Kolkata, Dec 4 (IANS) With pacer Stuart Broad going wicketless so far in the cricket Test series against India, England captain Alastair Cook Tuesday hinted at playing Steve Finn in the Eden Gardens Test beginning Wednesday.

“It is great that Finn is back and fully fit. He is a fine bowler. With his availability he has added competition to the squad. We have a big selection problem ahead which as a captain and coach you really want,” Cook told mediapersons here.

“He (Finn) has got more pace than the other guys. He performed well here during the one day series,” said Cook.

Finn had suffered a thigh strain in the first warm-up game of the tour and sat out the first two tests of the series.

He declared himself fit earlier and bowled six overs in the nets Monday without discomfort and then stated: “If I’m needed Wednesday, then I’ll be ready to go. I feel in good rhythm. I’m in a good place.”

Cook, however defended Broad saying he was unlucky.

“Sub-continent wickets are tough for pacers. In the current series majority of the wickets have gone to spinners. He has been unlucky. He has had two tough games. He is a fantastic player and I am glad that he is part of the squad,” added Cook.

Broad’s performance in the series has received wide criticism with bowling coach David Saker describing his form as an “issue”.

IANS 2012-12-04 14:52:26