Bell eager to pounce on chance to become Cook’s deputy in Eng Test team

London: Ian Bell is keen to take up the vice-captain role of the England Test team, and would be ready to grab any such opportunity that comes his way.

Bell would be a solid choice to become newly appointed captain Alastair Cook’s deputy in the longest version of the game, but is set to face stiff competition from wicketkeeper Matt Prior and Twenty20 skipper Stuart Broad. “If anything like that came round, you would jump at the chance,” Bell has made a smooth shift to the role as opener in the one-day side following Kevin Pietersen’s decision to retire from one-day cricket, which he has since rescinded. Talks between Pietersen and the England officials are ongoing to see if there is a way back for the batsman. However, Bell hopes to continue in the role alongside Cook as the opening pair whether or not Pietersen returns. “I’ve really enjoyed the role at the top of the order. It has been nice to get the opportunity,” Bell said. ANI