Hussain grateful for all-round options

With stability in key positions and a host of all-rounders to provide options, Nasser Hussain is upbeat about England's chances in the ICC KnockOut. The England skipper is sure of his opening batsmen and new ball bowlers but beyond that has plenty of scope to adapt to the needs of each game.

"We have so many options, we really do," he explained. "There are various things we can do with our batting. I could go in at number three or number six; depending on how the game develops. People like White, Flintoff and Giles can all do a big job for us with the bat. There is plenty we can do in different circumstances."

But Hussain thinks it will be unnecessary to experiment with pinch hitters, as with Trescothick and Stewart at the top of the order he already has an aggressive opening pair. "I don't know about pinch hitters," he said, "but I've not seen too many people hit the ball better than those two."

England's new ball attack looks equally assured. "Andrew Caddick and Darren Gough have been bowling beautifully, and that has been the key," Hussain acknowledged.

Although Mullally will be missed, Hussain has two all rounders capable of bowling with real pace to support the opening pair. Flintoff and White, who progressed so well this summer, will have a key part to play with bat and ball. "White has bowled pretty quickly," Hussain explained "and Duncan Fletcher has been working hard with him in that regard. I think he views himself as a batter who bowls rather than the other way around, and although he hasn't made many runs yet, I am sure that will change."