England premier fast bowler James Anderson appeared in a bit of discomfort during Australia’s first inning at the Gabba and did not bowl straight after the lunch when the Aussies were in a spot of bother, raising speculations over a ‘mystery injury’.
In reply to England’s 302, Australia finished at 328 with 26 runs ahead. Aussie skipper Steven Smith was at his best, as he brought his 21st Test hundred, the third fastest in the world.
Speaking about Anderson’s injury to BT, the 31-year-old Broad stated Anderson is fit and healthy, and it was the plan to bowl short and sharp spells, as it was hot out in the middle.
“He bowled 30 overs and bowled exceptionally. It was a bit of a plan of ours to bowl short, sharp spells as we have the extra bowler. ‘On these pitches, if you get into seven or eight over spells you can start leaking runs,” Broad was heard saying.
Broad further added Anderson hasn’t spoken about any injuries all the day and he has only bowled 30 overs. Broad further mentioned, in a Test match a bowler is prepared to bowl 40 overs at least. He also admitted the batsmen would try and be patient in the first hour of the fourth days play and stretch the Australian bowlers to bowl more than 50-55 overs.
However, when asked whether Broad’s statement convinced him, former English captain Michael Vaughan said:
“No. Absolutely not. ‘You look at the game situation, and there was no Broad or Jimmy after lunch. That created momentum for Australia.
The 35-year-old Anderson, who is one of the best swing bowlers in the world currently bowled 29 overs giving 50 runs and picking up two wickets of Peter Handscomb and Tim Paine.
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