South Africa vs England: Alastair Cook criticises 'harsh' treatment of players

England captain unhappy with two-day break between Tests as he admits gamble over leading wicket-taker Anderson

England captain Alistair Cook practices in the nets before the second test in the series against South Africa (Reuters)

The England captain, Alastair Cook, believes the short gap between the first and second Tests against South Africa is “harsh” on the players.

England take on their hosts here at Newlands on Saturday, having won the first Test in Durban, which finished only on Wednesday.

“Yeah, it’s a bit strange,” said Cook of the quick turnaround. “I think a two-day break between Tests is pretty harsh on the players, but it is what it is and I’m sure someone behind the scenes is quite happy about it.

“You have to [put it out of your mind]. You can’t use it as an excuse. It’s the same for both sides but it is very quick. The lads enjoyed the Durban win but in the back of their minds, knowing how quickly [the next game was upon them], with a day’s travel, and how hot it has been here, it has been a quiet couple of days.”

Cook also admitted that he faced taking a big gamble on whether or not to recall the country’s leading wicket-taker, James Anderson, for the second Test.

Anderson missed the first Test with a calf strain and Cook said: “We have to be really careful with heart and head. He’s desperate to play but we just have to make sure it’s the right decision for him. If he’s fit and ready and confident, then he’ll be opening the bowling but we don’t want to hinder ourselves and have an injury caused that we could have prevented.”