James Anderson will be replacing Ollie Robinson in the fourth Ashes Test at Old Trafford, beginning on Wednesday. England currently trails Australia 2-1 in the series. As their victory in the third Test at Headingley has kept them in the running to win the Ashes.
Anderson, who was rested for the previous Test, has been recalled for the match on his home ground. Robinson experienced a back spasm at Headingley. Bowling 11 overs in the first innings and not bowling at all in the second.
England captain Ben Stokes had previously mentioned that it was an opportunity for Anderson to rest and prepare himself to charge in from the James Anderson End at Old Trafford.
The England XI for the fourth Test includes Ben Duckett, Zak Crawley, Moeen Ali, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes, Jonathan Bairstow, Chris Woakes, Mark Wood, Stuart Broad, and James Anderson.
Anderson, aged 40, holds the record for the most Test wickets by an England player and has a stand at the Old Trafford ground named after him.
Additionally, Moeen Ali will continue batting at No. 3. Allowing Harry Brook to remain at No. 5 after his significant contribution of 75 runs in the third Test. Ali’s move up the order came about after he approached head coach Brendon McCullum with the request.
“When I took the role on I asked for 10 other selfless cricketers,” England captain Stokes said post-match at Headingley.
The weather seems to be affecting England’s practice sessions leading up to the third Test. On Monday morning, thunder was heard followed by rain at Old Trafford. As a result, the players had to leave the field during warm-up and will likely have to continue their sessions indoors.
Unfortunately, it appears that rain will disrupt their practice days, potentially causing further interruptions. While conditions are expected to improve for Wednesday and Thursday. Furthermore, the weekend’s weather forecast does not look favorable.
This situation could be worrisome for England as they cannot afford to draw this Test. Winning this match is crucial for their chances of winning the series. If the series ends in a draw, Australia, being the current holders, would retain the Ashes.
