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England speedster James Anderson believes that they are still in with a chance to beat India 3-1 and qualify for the World Test Championship final later in the year. Although the visitors managed to beat India in the opening Test, it was the Men in Blue who prevailed in their home conditions in the second Test. The hosts are still favourites to win the series as they are yet to loose a Test series at home since 2012.
Jimmy, who was rested for the second Test despite a magical spell with the old ball on Day 5 of the opening Test, said that he has mixed emotions about not featuring in the second game but wants to look at the bigger picture. The veteran fast bowler acknowledged that a rest will give him the best chance to remain fit and firing for the remaining fixtures especially the one with the pink-ball which is expected to assist the seamers.
"I am feeling good and fresh and ready to go again if called. Frustrating to an extent but I can see the bigger picture," he said in a virtual press conference.
Pretty sure pitch won't have grass on match day: Anderson
James Anderson said that although the pitch currently has grass on it at the Motera Stadium, Ahmedabad, he is sure that it won't be the case when the
teams turn up on match day for the pink-ball Test, set to commence on February 24. Anderson was quick to add that the seamers are prepared to ball in any conditions and if it swings then good but even if it doesn't they will have some serious job to do.
Will have to wait and see if Stuart and I can bowl together: Jimmy
On being asked if he would be selected along with Stuart Broad for the third Test, Anderson said that it is a difficult one to predict since they have a lot of fast bowlers to choose from. With Jofra Archer expected to regain fitness and Olly Stone impressing with his performance in the second Test, it will be a good selection headache to have for the selectors. But Anderson admits that their focus remains on preparation, and both Stuart and himself look forward to bowling with each other.
Atmosphere will be special at Motera, says the English veteran
Impressed by the world's largest cricket stadium, Anderson said that despite it not being a full house due to COVID protocols, it will be a pretty special atmosphere for cricket. He added that the pink-ball Test has had a different atmosphere and have been special in the past and this will also be something similar heading into it with the series levelled at 1-1.