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Despite retiring from international cricket on July 12, James Anderson will continue to be a crucial part of the England cricket team in the ongoing Test series against West Indies. Zak Crawley confirmed that the legendary fast bowler will mentor young pacers and assist the batting lineup in preparation for upcoming Test matches. Anderson's role will include bowling to batters in practice sessions to sharpen their skills.
England's players are thrilled to continue benefiting from James Anderson's expertise as he transitions to a mentoring role. Crawley believes Anderson's vast experience will significantly enhance the team's preparation and performance.
“He said he's going to bowl in the nets. I just hope he's going to bowl cross-seam. I've faced enough seam up balls from him. He'll put the ball wherever he wants I suppose. A few fluffers and half-volleys from now on I think, Jimmy,” Crawly was quoted as saying by Cricbuzz.
England's seam bowling attack is undergoing a significant transformation as James Anderson's retirement marks the end of an era. For the first time in nearly two decades, the team will be without both Anderson and Stuart Broad. However, the emergence of Gus Atkinson on debut has provided a promising glimpse into the future and boosted confidence within the team and selection panel as they navigate this transitional period.
“It's certainly a changing of the guard but it's really good to see some young talent coming in. Gus, Dillon, other guys like Matthew Potts. These guys are really talented bowlers and I find them hard to face. They're all going to go well and get the chance like Gus did. We're a very tight-knit group and we're all encouraged to add to the environment, help the environment. Even Dillon coming in for his first game, you're encouraged to help everyone around you,” he added.
Zak Crawley welcomed the influx of young pace bowling talent into the England Test squad. While Chris Woakes remains a seasoned presence, bowlers like Matt Potts and Dillon Pennington are eager to make their mark. Pennington, in particular, has impressed with his pace and movement. Crawley acknowledged the challenges of transitioning from an era dominated by Anderson and Broad but expressed confidence in the abilities of the new generation, citing Gus Atkinson as an example of their potential.
England Playing XI for 2nd Test:
Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (captain), Jamie Smith (wicketkeeper), Chris Woakes, Gus Atkinson, Mark Wood, Shoaib Bashir.
West Indies Playing XI for 2nd Test:
Kraigg Brathwaite (C), Alick Athanaze, Joshua Da Silva (WK), Kavem Hodge, Jason Holder, Alzarri Joseph, Shamar Joseph, Mikyle Louis, Kirk Mckenzie, Gudakesh Motie, Jayden Seales.
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