Nasser Hussain taken aback by Ben Stokes' and Brendon McCullum's last-minute call

Former England captain Nasser Hussain criticized England’s bowling strategy during the first Test of the five-match series against India. Nasser Hussain expressed disappointment over veteran James Anderson’s absence from the playing XI during the series opener in Hyderabad.

The England team management opted for a spin-heavy attack in the first match, including inexperienced Tom Hartley and Rehan Ahmed. Mark Wood stood as the sole pacer in the bowling lineup. Notably, James Anderson did not secure a place in the squad.

Jack Leach delivered 25 overs, conceding 54 runs and securing a wicket. In contrast, the inconsistent bowling of Hartley and Rehan Ahmed proved costly, with economy rates of 5.20 and 4.60, respectively. Part-time off-spinner Joe Root contributed with 24 overs.

India showcased dominance after two days of play in the ongoing Test match. The home team scored 421/7 in response to England’s 246. They secured a substantial lead of 175 runs at Stumps on Day 2. Ravindra Jadeja (81) and Axar Patel (35) remained unbeaten.

I Would Have Played James Anderson – Nasser Hussain

Speaking on Sky Sports, Nasser Hussain questioned the team’s balance with three spinners alongside Joe Root in the starting XI. Hussain highlighted that Jack Leach hasn’t bowled since June last year due to stress fractures.

“I said before the game that I would have played Anderson. I was a bit surprised by the balance of the side because some people are saying three spinners, but with Root, we actually have four spinners, and one seamer. So I was a little bit surprised. I understood why they had done it. Firstly, they have seen a bare pitch that’s gonna turn.

The history of what they have played in India, pitches have turned recently. So they wanted four spinners or three spinners and Root. Also for the reasons that we have just discussed. We have got Jack Leach, who hasn’t bowled since May-June, because of his stress fractures,” Hussain said.

James Anderson Gives You Control – Nasser Hussain

Nasser Hussain emphasized that James Anderson could provide control to the England team, highlighting his outstanding record in the sub-continent over recent years. The former captain stated that Anderson can generate reverse swing.

“Anderson gives you control. If not Anderson, it can be Robinson, just another seamer. Anderson’s skills in the sub-continent have been exceptional over the last few years. He gives you control, he bowls those cutters, he gets reverse swing,” Hussain added.

James Anderson has a stellar record in the Asian subcontinent, securing 82 wickets in 28 Test matches at an average of 26.78. The right-arm pacer claimed 34 wickets in 13 Tests in India. He also played a crucial role in England’s series victory during the 2012/13 campaign.

He Is England’s Greatest-Ever Bowler – Nasser Hussain

Nasser Hussain expressed admiration for James Anderson, stating that his greatness as a player is evident in both home and away conditions, and labeling him as England’s greatest-ever bowler.

“You are always a better player when you are outside, Anderson was quite a good player and he is quite a good player when he is inside. He is England’s greatest-ever bowler,” Hussain concluded.

Also read: Nasser Hussain slams England for toying with James Anderson’s career