Thaindian News

London, Dec 14(ANI): England selector Ashley Giles has slammed reports that batsman Ian Bell and fast bowler Jonathan Trott were included in the squad on tour to South Africa due to his county connection with them.

Giles has come in for criticism over his dual role as a national selector and head coach at Warwickshire with claims that both players have received preferential treatment.

“Some of the things I heard about Belly and Trotty were just laughable. That Warwickshire might be a good place to play your cricket! But, I think the results speak for themselves,” The Mirror quoted Giles, as saying.

“If anything, I think, we held Trotty back a bit because I see him every day. To say I favour Warwickshire players is wrong because they get that side of it worse than anyone,” he added.

Giles also said that his responsibility is to notice performances of individual players, and being the coach of Warwickshire, only helps him further to do his work efficiently.

“I’m here to help England win Test matches. Whether that is as a county coach or as a selector and the players who I see play against Warwickshire have a fantastic opportunity,” Giles said.

“The other selectors go around watching games, but I see guys from the start to the finish of a day. How they warm up, how they are around the dressing rooms, their manner and their respect for team-mates,” he added. (ANI)