• England news

Bell delighted with new deal for Flower

ESPN staff
May 3, 2011
Andy Flower has the full respect of the England squad © Getty Images
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The England players have welcomed the news that team director Andy Flower has signed a new contract, with Ian Bell feeling the team have benefited greatly from the Zimbabwean's involvement.

England were in a period of transition when Flower took charge in 2009, having suffered a dip in form following the Ashes triumph of 2005. He has masterminded back-to-back Ashes series wins and has been rewarded with a new contract.

The England board are keen to see the team build on their recent run of good form and Flower is seen as key to this. And the decision to sign a new deal has met favour with the players.

"It is outstanding, fantastic," Bell told Sky Sports News. "He has been a vital part of English cricket the past two years. He has been key to the drive forward and improvement and I hope he stays for a long time now."

Off-spinner Graeme Swann said: "It's great news. From an English perspective he's the greatest coach in the world and we're more than happy to see him put pen-to-paper again.

"From an English perspective he's the greatest coach in the world and we're more than happy to see him put pen-to-paper again."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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