Jimmy can play in big Roses clash
CRICKET CHRIS OSTICK
JIMMY Anderson could play in Lancashire’s Specsavers County Championship Roses clash with Yorkshire next month.
The ECB announced earlier this week that England’s leading wicket-taker would sit out the next six weeks as he manages a shoulder injury.
That ruled him out of this week’s County Championship defeat to Essex and their next two four-day games.
Lancashire are then in T20 Blast action until they face their old rivals at Emirates Old Trafford in the Championship, starting on July 22.
England are keen for him to play in the Yorkshire match ahead of the first Test against India which begins on August 1.
It is understood they would also like him to play in a second game, but with no first-class cricket between the Roses clash and the India Test, Lancashire may arrange a second team game for Anderson to play in.
Another option is for Anderson to turn out for the England Lions in a four-day game against India A, which is scheduled for July 16, while a third option could see him play for Surrey in a three-day tour match against the West Indies A at The Oval, again starting on July 16.
However, Lancashire are keen for that not to happen, believing that if he is to play for a county it should be the Red Rose.
A Lancashire spokesman said: “We totally respect and understand that Jimmy is an ECB centrally contracted player and that there is a requirement to manage his long-standing right shoulder injury, and we are in full support of ensuring that Jimmy’s preparation for England’s Test series is at the forefront of all decisions.
“Lancashire Cricket Club believes that there is further discussion to be had as to the next steps with a focus on the England Lions and/or a Lancashire second XI fixture, and we look forward to such conversations with the ECB over the coming days.
“Jimmy grew up playing cricket for Burnley Cricket Club, before going on to represent Lancashire and England. He has become an icon of the game who performs at the highest level, and the Club and everyone connected to the county of Lancashire is immensely proud of Jimmy.
“Young cricketers and the wider cricket family in Lancashire aspire to achieve and follow in his footsteps, and his inspiration and connection to the club, continues to build and develop the game in the North West.”