11 Jan 2009

Katich backs Strauss to unify England cricket team

5:19 pm on 11 January 2009

The Australian Test opening batsman Simon Katich doubts the turmoil surrounding the England will impact on this year's Ashes series.

English cricket has undergone a turbulent week with previous skipper Kevin Pietersen resigning and coach Peter Moores sacked following a rift between the two men.

Batsmen Andrew Strauss has been handed the captaincy.

Six months remain before the start of the five-Test Ashes series, but Katich believes Strauss, who captained the team briefly in 2006 against Pakistan, will be able to unify the England dressing room.

He thinks Strauss has shown in the past that when he's been given the reins he's does a good job.