Cook’s recipe exposes Pakistan

England captain says team not complacent.

ABU DHABI: Captain Alastair Cook’s simple recipe of playing hard has exposed cracks in the Pakistan team, leaving England with a 2-0 lead in the four-match One-Day International (ODI) series.

However, Cook said England were not going get complacent.

“You train like its still 0-0,” said Cook. “Complacency has never been an issue with this England side, whether we win or lose. It won’t be easy but it’s a great situation to be in – 2-0 up with two to go.”

Cook has transformed after being deemed not fit for ODI cricket and said he has changed his ways to suit the format.

“When I’d played those first 20-odd games, I knew if I wanted to play ODI cricket for England I’d have to improve. I’ve changed the way I play.”

Wednesday’s hundred was his third as captain following a 119 against Sri Lanka at Lord’s last year but Cook was full of praise for Finn, who has taken eight wickets in two matches, for working towards England’s win.

“He was our outstanding performer in India, and never really got the wickets he deserved.”

Published in The Express Tribune, February 17^th, 2012.