As the England cricket team prepares for the test series against India, the spotlight falls inevitably on their new captain, Alastair Cook. Largely untried as a leader at the highest level, general opinion seems to be in favour of Cook’s appointment. Top batsman, good team player, resolute under pressure.
Cook’s predecessor, Andrew Strauss, alongside coach Andy Flower, saw England take the no. 1 position in the ICC Test rankings (a position subsequently lost to South Africa), so Cook has a tough act to follow.
But what makes a leader? In sport, or in business?
There is a clue in the title – a leader needs to lead. Sometimes from the front (opening the batting in a Test match; first into the office and last out); sometimes by offering advice and support; sometimes simply by providing the space for others to flourish.
But a leader also needs to be followed. And that can be the tricky part.