Alastair Cook's ODI captaincy future in doubt as England selectors split over his axing

Alastair Cook's future as England ODI team captain is reportedly in the balance with the team selectors split over whether the skipper should be axed from the role. England coach Peter Moores strongly supports Cook to remain as skipper for the World Cup in February and March. But speculations are rife that chairman of selectors James Whitaker and other members of the committee are reluctant to back him.

The full selection panel of Moores, Whitaker, Angus Fraser and Mick Newell will meet on September 23 to decide on a squad for the five-match series in November and December, The Mirror reported. And that would reportedly be the deciding day for Cook's future, with the opener almost certain to lead his country at the World Cup in Australia and New Zealand if he gets the nod for the Sri Lanka trip. Cook survived as England Test captain this summer when his side overturned a 1-0 deficit to beat India 3-1. But his future in ODIs came under increased scrutiny during England's thrashing by the Indians in the 50-over series, their fifth defeat in six series in that format.

It is believed that selectors have held preliminary discussions over Cook's future, with no agreement having been reached so far. If the panel continues to be split, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) managing director Paul Downton, who is not officially a selector but who sits in on selection meetings, may have to make a big call on Cook, the report added.