Anderson still keen to play a part

JIMMY Anderson claims he can still play a part in the Ashes series.

England’s record Test bowler, 37, was KO’d after just four overs in the first Test loss to Australia with a recurrence of a calf injury. But he is prepared to undergo hours of rehab in an effort to face the Aussies.

Anderson (pictured left) said: “The thought of more time away from the game is driving me nuts. I haven’t thought about giving up. My body feels great everywhere else, I’m as fit as I’ve ever been. It’s just this one muscle that is bugging me and not allowing me to do what I want to.”

And if he doesn’t make it back for the Ashes, he still wants to go on the winter tours to New Zealand and South Africa.

A scan has revealed recurring damage to the right calf he tore playing for Lancashire on July 2.

And Anderson was yesterday officially ruled out of next week’s second Test at Lord’s.

Anderson admitted he felt devastated and guilty watching England’s other bowlers struggle against master batsman Steve Smith on the way to a 251-run defeat at Edgbaston.

He added: “I’m pretty confident I can get over this, I want to keep going.

“The plan is to get back and play some part in the Ashes but, if that doesn’t work out, the winter is absolutely on my radar.

“I’m sure there will come a point where other bowlers either get injured or need a rest.

“If one needs to be replaced, it might work out well if I can get myself fit and help towards the end of the series.

“I’m at the age now when there’s a chance injuries will happen more.

“It’s something I’ve got to prepare for. But I’m very fortunate — I’ve been lucky with having so few throughout my career.”