Thorpe backs Strauss to become English cricket's greatest-ever captain

London, Dec.13 (ANI): Former England middle-order batsmen Graham Thorpe has backed Ashes-winning skipper Andrew Strauss to become the country's greatest ever captain.

Thorpe says Strauss can outdo Vaughan and triumph on Aussie soil.

"Strauss has made an impact very quickly. I always thought he would. He knows how important it is to play for England after being left out of the side a few years ago. He certainly doesn't take it for granted. His personality is absolutely perfect for captaining England," News of The World quoted Thorpe, as saying.

"If England go on a good run now they could get to No 1 in the world and that could culminate in Australia next year. To win in South Africa and then in Australia would outdo Vaughan, no doubt," Thorpe added.

Strauss has kept his thoughts to himself and Thorpe has been impressed by his restraint.

He said: "It's not Strauss' way to be mouthy. If he came out with lots of big words it would look unnatural. South Africa might have plenty to say but if you can open up the cracks there is enough vulnerability to exploit." (ANI)