Former Australian skipper Ricky Ponting has raised doubts over England’s decision to include James Anderson in the squad for the final Ashes 2023 Test against Australia at the Oval. Anderson has endured a forgettable series, managing only four wickets at an unexpectedly high bowling average of 76.75. Traditionally, Anderson has been a key performer for England in the Ashes, but this series has been a different story.
Anderson’s lack of wickets has been a matter of concern and has not helped England’s cause. Despite this, the veteran pacer found a place in the squad for the final Test. Speaking on the ICC Review, Ponting expressed his reservations about Anderson’s performances throughout the series. He pointed out that Anderson failed to make the desired impact, even with all the support he received during the Manchester Test.
“He has lacked penetration right through the series, James Anderson, so it’s going to be a really interesting decision, I think, from England now going into this last Test,” Ricky Ponting remarked.
The former Aussie captain highlighted that Anderson had the opportunity to bowl with the new ball and against the tail-enders but failed to deliver the expected results, which is unusual for a bowler of his caliber.
“So he got everything that he would have wanted as far as when to bowl and who to bowl at. And he just hasn’t had the penetration that you’ve expected from Anderson through such an amazing career,” Ricky Ponting added.
Considering Anderson’s form in the series, Ponting expressed his surprise if England decides to play him in the final Test. He suggested that the decision might become more sentimental rather than based on form and performance.
“I’d be very surprised if they do go ahead and play him at The Oval. If they do, you talk about this selection of Manchester being the sentimental one. I think now if they pick him at the Oval, that will be more sentimental than anything,” Rikcy Ponting opined.
Ponting also pointed out the situation with another bowler, Ollie Robinson, who performed well in the Lord’s Test but was subsequently left out. He further emphasized that he would be astonished if Anderson gets the nod for the final Test based on his current performance. The final Test of the Ashes 2023 series will be crucial for both teams, and the selection of the playing XI will be under scrutiny as they look to end the series on a positive note.
