England coach Brendon McCullum has come to the defence of James Anderson’s reason for delaying his arrival in Pakistan for the ongoing three-match Test series. The legendary pacer, who recently transitioned into a coaching role after retiring from international cricket, had opted to participate in the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship, the esteemed pro-am golf competition in Scotland, before joining the team.
His bowling coach, 42-year-old Andrew Hudson, attended the pre-series presentation and will not reach Pakistan until October 8, two days after the start of the first Test in Multan. Meanwhile, despite being the last man to bat at 10, Anderson was up for defence by McCullum, who pointed out consistent communication with the English bowling crew via electronic means.
ALSO READ: Ben Stokes Steps Up as Drink Carrier During Multan Test Despite Injury
The current bowling brigade, led by the astute Chris Woakes and complimented with an ensemble full of promising new talents like Gus Atkinson and Brydon Carse, has not stayed in touch with the old warhorse even. Brendon McCullum speaking to Sky Sports, quoted by Wisden: “Two months ago, people were questioning if he deserved to be the coach. Now we’re missing him. That just shows the impact Jimmy Anderson has had in this short time transitioning from player to coach.”
PAK vs ENG: Bowling consultant Anderson misses 1st Test to play golf in Scotland, McCullum defends decisionhttps://t.co/DdFHb2PcQn
— Express Sports (@IExpressSports) October 7, 2024
McCullum stated that the physical absence does not reduce Anderson’s contribution by asserting “We live in a world where you can still communicate without being face to face.” Brendon McCullum stated that Anderson has spent more than two decades in cricket and has remained comfortable with his occupation as a coach, which is a part-time job, making way for some freedom.
ALSO READ: Yuvraj Singh Expresses Disappointment Over Abhishek Sharma’s Dismissal Despite Explosive Start
In other news, England had started the first Test of the series against Pakistan at Multan. The visitors won the toss and elected to bat on what is expected to be a pitch that will offer a balance between bat and ball. England is fourth in the ICC World Test Championship table with eight victories to its credit, while Pakistan occupies eighth position after suffering a series defeat at home to Bangladesh.
