Tuesday 12th August 2008
Moores: KP can show sterner side
Peter Moores is confident Kevin Pietersen will be ruthless if England fail to perform as he would like as the new captain.
The England coach has watched Pietersen closely over the last week after he succeeded Michael Vaughan into the role and then guided England to a six-wicket victory over South Africa in the final Test at The Brit Oval.
Coach Moores has no doubts that Pietersen can handle that part of the captaincy and be tough when required, however, stressing: "I think he can speak openly and be fair."
All the initial assessments of his captaincy have been focused on Pietersen's determination to lift spirits by publicly backing his players and praising their efforts.
But there will come a time during his reign as captain when he will need to swap the touchy-feely style of captaincy for a tougher approach by delivering a few good old-fashioned home truths to his side if they do not reach his exacting standards.
It is a big test for any captain who has been brought up from the ranks, having the courage to stand up and dress down players he may regard as close friends.
Moores added: "When you get criticism, as long as its fair and honest, players will always accept it and Kevin can do that. It's quite insightful how he sees the game and if he gives feedback it will be fair and honest.
"If that was the situation and they thought they should cop it then they'd be happy to take it. They would take it on the chin and respond to it."
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