England

Cook hits out at 'so-called friend' Swann

ESPN staff

August 28, 2014

Alastair Cook says he is happy to talk to Graeme Swann about his comments © Getty Images

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Alastair Cook has hit back at Graeme Swann after the former England spinner called for him to quit as captain ahead of the World Cup, which starts in Australia and New Zealand in February.

Speaking to the BBC, Swann had claimed former team-mate Cook "shouldn't be bothering playing one-day cricket".

But after England's 133-run thrashing in the second one-day international against India on Wednesday, Cook said: "I don't think it's that helpful, especially from a so-called friend."

Cook, who has resisted calls to quit as England's Test captain for much of this year, added: "He's entitled to his opinion, but it's not ideal for me, especially when you get through the summer I've had.

"I am disappointed because he is a good friend of mine and has been a supporter. It's not helpful at this time, because I am going to be captain in this World Cup.

"I've done it for three-and-a-half years. We're going to build up to that, and we've got a good chance."

Cook said he has not spoken to Swann about his comments, and added: "The phone is always open the other way."