Alastair Cook not injured, England coach Paul Farbrace says
Monday 26 October 2015 10:37, UK
England have no concerns over Alastair Cook's fitness despite his clear discomfort on day four of the second Test against Pakistan.
The captain was visibly stiff as he ran between the wickets during a brief second-innings knock of 10 which ended when he was caught in the deep sweeping Yasir Shah.
But coach Paul Farbrace played down fears of an injury when he spoke to Michael Atherton on Sky Sports at the close of play.
And Trevor Bayliss' assistant later ruled out the possibility of resting Cook for the final Test in Sharjah.
"Not at the moment because he has played so well," Farbrace said. "Even during the lean times run-wise, he's an important member of the team in terms of how he captains the side.
"The way he plays, the experience and leadership he gives our side with the way he bats, that's the greatest thing about Cooky - he leads by example. He's in great form and we want him in great form and playing for as long as possible.
"I'm not aware of any injury, except for the amount of hours he's spent hunched over a bat handle scoring thousands of runs.
"He never looks the best mover anyway. He is someone who from time-to-time does get treatment on his back, but honestly it's not something we are spending time talking about.
"He needs to manage himself and he does that really well. It isn't a concern for us."
Live coverage of the second Test continues with day four on Sky Sports 2 HD from 5.45am on Sunday. You can also watch without a contract on NOW TV.
