Anderson may sit test out

LONDON: England’s head coach, Chris Silverwood, has refused to guarantee Jimmy Anderson will start England’s second test against India on Sunday, despite his sensational display in the first test in Chennai.

Silverwood was full of praise for Anderson, whose reverseswinging over in the second innings did for Shubman Gill and Ajinkya Rahane and opened the door for England’s finalday charge and their subsequent 227run triumph.

“He blew the game open for us,” Silverwood said.

“It was quite remarkable to watch. Anyone watching at home — any aspiring fast bowlers — when you see an over like that, it’s inspirational. He hit his straps straight away with his swing and to be so accurate. It just shows what a class act he is.”

But Silverwood would not go as far as saying the 38yearold would keep his place when battle resumes in Chennai.

“Broady [Stuart Broad] didn’t play in the last game and we’ve many bowlers here who we could play at any given point . . . I’m not reluctant to change a winning team if it’s the best thing to do for the players and the team and the longevity of it,” he said.

There will be at least one enforced change. Jos Buttler has flown home as part of England’s rotation policy, and Ben Foakes, who played the last of his five tests two years ago, will pull on the gloves.

“He’s looking good. He’s been training hard,” Silverwood said. “Having this opportunity has given him a great focus over the past couple of weeks. . . I see it as an opportunity for people to come in and show what they can do.” —