Rajendra Prasad Mohapatra

Though England faced an embarrassing 1-4 series defeat against hosts India in the recently concluded Test series, veteran English pacer James Anderson impressed to become only the third bowler to reach 700 Test wickets.

The 41-year-old pacer continued to defy age with his remarkable endurance, emerging as the first fast bowler to scale this extraordinary milestone in Test cricket.

Meanwhile, former Australia pacer Glenn McGrath believes that the Indian bowlers can certainly learn a thing or two from Anderson. India’s star pace duo of Jasprit Bumrah (30) and Mohammed Shami (33) is currently enjoying its prime. However, McGrath feels that there is a need to put significant focus on the body and fitness to ensure longevity.

“We have to wait and see the next generation coming through. Jasprit Bumrah has still got a bit to go, Mohammed Shami is a little older, and Mohammed Siraj has been around for a little while but still has plenty left. So, the current Indian bowling attack has still some life left,” said McGrath during a recent interaction.

“It’s tough, but the one thing that bowlers like Shami possess is experience. He’s been around for a long time and is an exceptional bowler. But, as you get older, you still need motivation to train hard, prepare and get out there and perform. Look at someone like James Anderson, who is 41, taking 700 Test wickets and still bowling well. So, you can still be at the top of your game. But as you get older, being a fast bowler it is tough on the body, and it can certainly have an impact in the longer run,” the former Australia great added.
 

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