Anderson unlikely to make first India Test

Cricket365
October 19, 2016

England fast bowler James Anderson is unlikely to be fit enough to return to action in time to face India in the first of five Tests, according to skipper Alastair Cook.

The England pace spearhead is recovering from a stress fracture to his shoulder that he sustained earlier in the summer while facing Sri Lanka.

When asked if he though Anderson would be fit for the first Test against India in Rajkot, Cook replied: “I don’t think he will be there for the start. He might come out to do some training but he will not be ready to play in the first Test. They are making some decisions over the next seven days.”

Cook remains hopeful that Anderson will have some role to play as England hunt a series win away from home against the world number one team.

The skipper added: “I spoke to him last night. He has been doing a lot of training and is in good shape physically. The decision is going to be made over the next week on when he goes to India.”

The captain indicated that the decision about whether or not Anderson will play will be made by the medical team.

Cook added in reply to a query about Anderson featuring in the series: “Yes, I think so, but you need to speak to the medical team.

“Jimmy has not bowled yet and that has been the problem in the past. The test for his body is when he starts bowling but he is making some strides.”

Anderson has a solid record in Asia despite his reputation as a swing bowler who thrives in English conditions and will be sorely missed should he be unable to face India.