James Anderson to retire soon? Pacer reveals he's not guaranteed a place in Team England

England’s veteran pacer James Anderson is focused on securing his position in the national Test squad for the upcoming home summer series. James Anderson highlighted that he’s in top form and is determined to prove his worth to the team through hard work.

James Anderson remains a pivotal asset in England’s bowling lineup, showcasing his skill in various conditions. Anderson is known for his ability to make the new ball count and execute reverse swing. He completed 700 Test wickets during the final Test in Dharamsala.

The 41-year-old bowler has taken 700 wickets in his illustrious 187-Test career at an average of 26.53, with best bowling figures of 7/42. The right-arm pacer has secured 149 Test wickets against India, which stands as the highest tally against them in cricket history.

Really Excited For The Summer – James Anderson

In an interview with the BBC Tailenders podcast, James Anderson expressed his eagerness to contribute to the team’s success in the summer. Anderson said that he is currently in the ‘best shape’ of his cricketing career.

“I’m really excited for the summer. I want to make sure I’m playing well and earn my place in the team. I’m not getting any worse. I’m definitely in the best shape I’ve ever been in. I like where my game is at and I still have that enjoyment of turning up every day and trying to get better in the nets. My place in the team is not a given so I’ve got to work hard to prove I’m worth a place in the summer,” Anderson said.

The team led by Ben Stokes will confront the West Indies in a three-match Test series in July this year, followed by a similar series against Sri Lanka in August and September. The team hopes to regain momentum and secure victories in the upcoming summer matches.

England began the series promisingly with a victory in the initial Test held in Hyderabad. However, the Rohit Sharma-led team staged a strong comeback, securing victories in the subsequent four Tests and continuing their formidable home performance.

India has maintained an undefeated streak in home Test series for 12 years. Notably, England was the last team to defeat them in India back in 2012. This loss marked England’s first defeat under Ben Stokes and head coach Brendon McCullum’s tenure.

There Is More To Come From This Team – James Anderson

James Anderson commended the unity within the team, crediting captain Ben Stokes and head coach Brendon McCullum for fostering a strong bond among the players. He expressed confidence in the team’s further growth and success in the future.

“I’ve been on tours to India before where little cracks start appearing in the team and that’s not happened this time. We’ve stuck together really well, we really enjoy being together as a group and there is more to come from this team,” Anderson added.

The veteran pacer played four out of the five Test matches in the recently concluded series against India. Anderson was the highest wicket-taker for England among pacers, securing 10 wickets at a decent average of 33.35, with his best bowling figures being 3/47.

Also read: Kuldeep Yadav said ‘I’m going to be your 700th wicket’ – James Anderson’s astonishing revelation