LONDON, June 21: Ian Bell has backed England’s policy of rotating their bowlers in a bid to combat the draining effects of a gruelling international schedule.

With the ODI series against the West Indies already won with a match to spare, England’s selectors have opted to rest three of their leading bowlers, Stuart Broad, Tim Bresnan and Graeme Swann, for Friday’s final fixture at Headingley.

“There’s a heavy schedule coming up. We need to look after these guys,” said Bell. “There’s this big series against Australia coming up, and South Africa after that.

“The key to our success in one-day cricket is having five out-and-out world-class bowlers.

“So if we want to beat the Australians, we want these guys fit and fresh and ready to go.

“For the three guys who play in all three forms of the game it’s going to be crucial.”

Young pace bowler Stuart Meaker, all-rounder Chris Woakes and spinner James Tredwell have been called up to the squad in place of those who will be sidelined at Headingley.

“It’s a good option to let them have a bit of a breather and it gives an opportunity to the likes of Meaker, Woakes and Tredwell,” Bell remarked.—AFP