Credit for Ashes win goes to Alastair Cook: Paul Collingwood

Former England batsman Paul Collingwood has extolled Alastair Cook for his brilliant leadership in the Ashes series, with England having subjugated the Australian team with emphatic victories.

Cook had withstood intense criticism over the recent past for his team’s performances, and he recently said that he was on the verge of stepping down as captain. But with England’s fortunes turned around, he seems relieved and happy.

“A lot of credit goes to Alastair Cook himself. The way he has led the team is incredible. He has stood firm amidst a lot of criticism in the past,” Collingwood was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo on Sunday.

“Cook has got himself into a position where he has taken his team forward to beat a very good Australian side as they were in top form coming into this Ashes series,” he added.

The World T20-winning captain also said that the youngsters are excited to play under Cook, and if England could continue their good performances, they might soon become the no. 1 Test team.

“The way the team has beaten Australia, full credit goes to Cook the way he has led the team. The youngsters are excited to play under him and are behind him. English cricket is really in an exciting place at the moment,” he said.

“When you have so many talented youngsters in the team and who can win matches on their own is incredible. If they can continue with this then the No. 1 status will come soon by their way.”

The final Ashes Test begins on July 20 at the Kennington Oval, London.