Alastair Cook refuses to reveal Steven Finn’s replacement as Stuart Meaker, Tim Bresnan, Graham Onions and Monty Panesar sweat

Wednesday, November 14, 2012
10:03 AM

England captain Alastair Cook would not be drawn on his plans to replace Steven Finn in the bowling line-up, and resented the accusation that he was picking from the also-rans.

Tim Bresnan is likely to be the one selected on the pacemen front but England may select two spinners meaning Monty Panesar would come in with James Anderson, Stuart Broad (if fit) and Jonathan Trott providing the seam options.

Stuart Meaker is the closest bowler to Finn’s style with Graham Onions also hoping for a spot in the side.

He told Sky Sports News: “I wouldn’t call them back-up bowlers, they’re all vying for a place to play in this XI, to be lucky enough to play for England.

“They’ve all worked hard to get used to these conditions and as selectors we’ve got a tough decision to make.”

Cook admitted he had not been out to check on the condition of the wicket at Ahmedabad since yesterday morning.

“Wickets change a lot in 24 hours,” he added. “Yesterday it looked quite a dry wicket and I think it’s been relaid so not much first-class cricket has been played on it.”