Reports: James Anderson ruled out of Ashes opener

England’s all-time highest wicket-taker James Anderson is set to miss the upcoming first Ashes Test against Australia at Gabba in Brisbane, starting Wednesday.

According to a report in The Cricketer, Anderson has been ruled out of the Ashes opener because of a calf injury. The veteran pacer is set to be replaced by seam-bowler Chris Woakes, with Mark Wood also in contention to feature in the side.

Notably, Anderson’s injury is not supposed to rule him out further as the ‘Burnley Express’ is likely to play the Adelaide Test under the lights with the pink ball. The second Test starts on December 16.

Anderson’s exit ahead of the first Test is a big blow for the tourists as he carries plenty of experience in Australian conditions. He has played 18 Tests down under, picking up 60 wickets at an average of 35.43.

“One thing I will say is, you look at Jimmy’s record over the last couple of years, and it’s got better and better and better. He might be getting older, but he’s still bowling just as well, if not better,” English skipper Joe Root had told cricket.com.au.

“I think it’s going to be really key we look to play our best team for what’s in front of us throughout the whole series, and weather conditions dictate that, whether the grounds dictate that, whether fitness dictates that, I think we’re just going to have to be really smart and savvy about it. Ultimately, we want to play our best team, and Jimmy Anderson is one of the best bowlers in the world,” he had added.

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December 07, 2021 at 08:41AM