Ian Bell

An enigma or just not very good?

Ian Bell's hopes of returning to the England Test squad have apparently been boosted after he was named in the Lions team to play against the West Indies next week. So, is this a case of easing him back into the international fold or a final sip in the last chance saloon?

The diminutive Warwickshire batsman was finally dropped during the winter tour of the Caribbean after a string of unimpressive batting performances. Since his return to County Championship cricket he has responded with two centuries in two games. Does the brace of tons highlight his genuine quality or just underline the paucity of English county bowling attacks?

The county circuit has long been aware of Bell’s ability to grind out big scores, he is regarded as England’s best net batsmen and yet a huge question mark hangs over his ability to score big runs in difficult conditions for his country.

Jardine’s verdict: Two double tons against a spirited WIndies attack and he should be allowed to carry the drinks in the 1st test. However, if Vaughny manages to scrape a fifty between now and then he should get in ahead of the Bell”Meister”™ (Billy Cotton 1994).