Contrary to what a lot of pundits have said about him in the recent past, England’s all time leading wicket taker, James Anderson has stated that he is no mood to retire. On his way to the elusive 500 wickets club, Anderson is probably just an inning away from getting to the milestone, and he could well get there at Lord’s, the home of cricket.
While several analysts doubt him, Anderson himself is keen to carry on for a few more years. The swing sensation opened up on his will to play until 40 years of age on the sidelines of a practice session.
The Ashes Down Under is just around the corner, and it is believed that if England endures anything similar to their drubbing of the previous trip, Anderson could well bid adieu to the game. The pacer though has no such thoughts troubling him.
“There’s no reason I can’t play until I’m 40,” Anderson said. “I am now as skillful a bowler as I have ever been and consistent as well. I don’t know whether I’ve peaked but I think I’m bowling as well as I have. “I played at Lancashire with Glen Chapple when he was 40 or 41, and he was as good as ever. I know it’s slightly different in county cricket but for me, just playing Test cricket, not one-day cricket, there’s no reason why I can’t extend my career a little bit.”
He also said that the prospects of the 2020/21 Ashes were still in his mind.
“I wouldn’t rule out playing in the Ashes of 2020-21, either. I’m very fortunate to have the body I have. For a fast bowler, not much stress goes through my body. A lot less than a lot of other fast bowlers. It’s just a case of looking after myself. If I can keep fit, keep my speeds up there’s no reason why not,” Anderson said.
“To play another Test at Old Trafford would be amazing, too. It’s my home ground, somewhere I was desperate to play when I growing up as a kid, so to play Tests here is an absolute dream. I’d love it if I was available for the Ashes Test here in 2019.”