James Anderson admits to frustration but says retirement not on his mind
Veteran England seamer 10 wickets away from 600 in Tests
August 10, 2020
England veteran seamer James Anderson said he is not contemplating retirement as he approaches 600 Test wickets.
After 590 Test wickets and 154 caps, Anderson has asked England to "keep faith" in his longevity. With growing reserves of talent in England's fast bowling department and Anderson's own output dipping – six wickets at 41.17 in three Tests this summer, versus a career average of 26.97 – there had been suggestions he was close to calling it a day.
Anderson admitted he struggled to find his groove as he laboured for match figures of 1-97 in the victory over Pakistan but made it clear to captain Joe Root and head coach Chris Silverwood that he is desperate for the chance to reclaim his best form rather than take a turn on the sidelines.
"It was one bad game and I'm sure I'll have another bad game in my career. I just don't want every time I have a bad game for there to be whispers going round that I'm going to pack in," he said as the focus shifted to the second Test, starting at the Ageas Bowl on Thursday.
"It's been a frustrating week for me personally. I've not bowled very well and felt out of rhythm. For the first time in probably 10 years I got a little bit emotional on the field, got a bit frustrated, let it get to me a little bit.
"But for me it's a case of working really hard the next couple of days, trying to figure out if there's any technical issues I can sort out and hoping I get the nod for the next game.
"Hopefully I can show people I've still got what it takes to play Test cricket. I'll keep my fingers crossed that the captain and coach keep faith with me for the next game.
"If I keep bowling the way I did this week the opportunity to retire will be taken out of my hands – it will be a selection issue. I think the frustration for me was that after one bad game the whispers go around. I don't think that's really fair.
"I'm still hungry to play the game and I'll work hard to try and put things right if I get a chance."
Published: August 10, 2020 05:43 PM
