Swann hails young T20 talent pool

Swann is now one of the most senior figures in England’s developing squad

England’s Graeme Swann believes the youngsters who will play in the Twenty 20 international against West Indies on Friday at the Oval are rich in talent.

The stand-in captain says he is excited by the likes of Jonny Bairstow, fresh from his one-day debut against India.

“These young guys are coming into a pressure situation, but we believe they’re good enough to cope,” he said.

“We’re very excited about them. They’ve been brought up on this format of the game and they’re exceptional at it.”

The 32-year-old off-spinner, who is replacing injured Stuart Broad as captain, added: “I’m sure they’ll enjoy it once they get on to the park and realise what a good time we have as a group. They’ll love being a part of it.

“We’ve got lads like [Danny] Briggs and [Scott] Borthwick coming into this squad who are superb young spinners with exceptional records in Twenty20. I’m sure they’ll do well over the next few days.”

Debutant Bairstow hit 41 from 21 balls to help win the fifth ODI against India last week in Cardiff having only been called into the squad days earlier.

He turned the game after arriving at the crease with England needing 75 from 50 balls.

England are looking to build up their squad strength for next year’s defence of the ICC World Twenty20 crown they won in the Caribbean 16 months ago.

“Being in the sub-continent, I think we’re going to have to play a lot of spin bowling over there,” Swann said.

“We’ve not got many games before Sri Lanka. We’re proud world champions, and want to keep hold of that mantle so these are vital games for us.

“It’s a bit of added pressure for me but I’m going to enjoy that and thrive on it. I’ve been around the block a few more times than these lads, but it’s nice to have that bit of experience under your belt.”

BBC Radio 5 live sports extra will have full commentary of England v West Indies on Friday from 1800 BST. For UK and worldwide users.

Source: http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/rss/-/sport1/hi/cricket/15023091.stm