NEW DELHI: Veteran England fast-bowler James Anderson envisions the possibility of England opening the bowling with two spinners when they kick off their five-match Test series against India on January 25 in Hyderabad.
England last won a Test series in India during the 2012/13 season, and Anderson believes the unique conditions in India might prompt a strategic shift in their bowling approach.
Speaking about his role as a senior figure in the team, Anderson emphasized the importance of mentoring bowlers who haven't experienced Indian conditions before.
"That has been my role over the recent past anyway is stepping into that mentoring role as a senior figure. I have a duty to pass on information to people," Anderson stated.
Anderson acknowledged the likelihood of reverse swing playing a significant role in the series and suggested that there might be instances where England opts to open the bowling with two spinners.
"Reverse swing will play a big part. There might be occasions where we don’t open with a seamer. We might open with two spinners. Your role changes a huge amount then, you come on third or fourth change with set batsmen in. That is the challenge of playing in India," said Anderson to The Telegraph.
While Stuart Broad has retired, Anderson, with 690 Test wickets, remains committed to contributing to the team's success. Dismissing retirement thoughts, he emphasized that age is just a number and highlighted his belief in having the skills to win matches for England.
"I still feel like I’ve got a lot to offer this team. I would not still be doing what I’m doing if I didn’t feel like that," Anderson asserted.
As England prepare for the challenging Test series in India, Anderson's experience and leadership will be crucial in guiding the team's bowling unit through unfamiliar conditions. The veteran pacer remains focused on making significant contributions to England's success in the upcoming series.
(With inputs from IANS)
