Kieswetter defends rotation policy, says it's vital for England players future

London, July 6 (ANI): England wicketkeeper Craig Kieswetter has dismissed criticism about resting players on the day Graeme Swann was stood down from the last two one-day internationals against Australia.

Chief selector Geoff Miller announced Swann, who has a minor elbow niggle, will play no further part in the series in order to preserve him for next month's Test series against South Africa.

The policy has drawn criticism for denying paying spectators the chance to see their heroes, but Kieswetter insists it is vital for the long-term welfare of the players.

"I think it's quite a small minded way of looking at it. Obviously spectators want to see the big players playing, but they also want to see England winning consistently," The Daily Star quoted Kieswetter, as saying.

"If everyone is playing every single game, with the sort of schedules we are having to play now, there would be a lot more injuries. Then spectators would be just as upset that the bigger players are injured," he said.

"Swanny has a bit of irritation in his elbow and he's being rested with quite a few Tests against South Africa coming up. That's a big series and they're trying to give it time to settle down, which to me makes obvious sense."

James Tredwell and Chris Woakes were yesterday added to England's squad ahead of tomorrow's fourth ODI in Durham, The Daily Star reports. (ANI)