Welcome headache for Root

JOE Root is mulling over whether to unleash James Anderson and Stuart Broad in tandem for the first time this winter as the England cricket captain welcomed the “great selection headache” ahead of the third Test against India.

England’s top two Test wicket-takers of all-time have only taken to the field together seven times in the last two years and have alternated in the four matches in recent weeks.

Anderson admitted he fears his long-term partnership with Broad, which has brought them in excess of 1,100 wickets, is drawing to a close but Root emphatically rejected the suggestion on the eve of the pink-ball Test in Ahmedabad.

There are a great many variables to consider ahead of the day-night contest and, with the series deadlocked at 1-1, Root was reluctant to divulge any indications of the make-up of his team.

However, there is optimism within the touring camp that their seamers will have greater assistance in this Test, meaning England might decide to include only one spinner and go with four fast bowlers.

Jofra Archer could feature after a cortisone injection to his elbow, and Root has a decision to make on Anderson, 38, and Broad, 34.

“They have a chance,” Root said. “It’s a great selection headache to have. I think you’d be wrong to write off those two to do anything, with the records they’ve had.”

England are also considering whether to bring back Zak Crawley following his wrist injury or Jonny Bairstow, who missed the first two Tests as part of England’s restand-rotation policy.

James Anderson