ENG vs IND 2018: Alastair Cook Believes Adil Rashid has Matured as a Cricketer

The former England captain, Alastair Cook, believes Adil Rashid will be able to push aside all the talks during the five-match Test series against India, starting August 1st.

It is worth noting that Rashid’s Test recall ahead of pivotal series sparkled off many controversies. Cook believes Adil Rashid has grown up personally and as well as professionally.

The leg-spinner’s inclusion in the Test side shed light on an apparent rift between the County and Adil Rashid.

Earlier, Rashid had made himself unavailable for red-ball cricket this summer. Also, his selection in the Test side fumed the management of Yorkshire.

The chief executive at Yorkshire, Mark Arthur expressed his disappointment at the recall of 30-year old leg-spinner to the Test squad against India.

Ed, Smith, the selector of England Cricket Team forced to clarify his decision on Adil Rashid. The chief selector hinted it out it is necessary for him to sign a red-ball county contract. Ed says it is the only option if he wants to remain available for Test cricket next summer.

A brave call by Ed Smith

The last time Adil Rashid featured in Test Cricket was in December 2016 against India in Chennai. Coincidentally, he played that Test match under the leadership of Alastair Cook.

However, Alastair Cook admits the comment by Smith is interesting – because it’s so unusual and brave.

“He’s going to be nervous because it’s a bit of time away from the England team and with the circumstances. But I genuinely think he will cope – he’s bowling well. I can understand why it’s caused a bit of fuss. But you have to get on with it, and I think we’ve got to look at the positives.”

Presence of Root will help Adil Rashid

In the end, Cook believes the presence of Joe Root as skipper will help Adil Rashid to deliver his better. Both Adil and Root play for the same team in county cricket, Yorkshire.

“We’ve got a different style of English spinner, with a little bit of mystery to him, who’s bowling well. That is what we should be excited about – not the off-field stuff.”