MANCHESTER: England’s bowler James Anderson said he is not pondering test retirement but conceded the decision could out of his hands if he continues to not perform as per expectations.
Anderson has managed just six wickets in his last three tests and struggled during England’s three-wicket win over Pakistan in the first test at Manchester.
This has fuelled speculation that his 17-year test career could be drawing to a close. The pacer confirmed that while he was disappointed with his effort, the thought of hanging up his boots never crossed his mind.
“There’s no truth to that. It’s been a frustrating week personally, I felt out of rhythm and probably for the first time in 10 years I got emotional on the field and let that get to me,” Anderson told reporters on Monday.
“I think after one bad game, there are some whispers that go around but I don’t really think that’s fair. I’ve just got to work hard and hope I get the nod for the next game.”
Anderson, who has picked up 590 test wickets and is England’s most successful bowler, reiterated his desire to carry on until next year’s Ashes series in Australia.
“I want to play as long as I possibly can. If I keep bowling the way I did this week, the opportunity to retire will be taken out of my hands. It will be a selection issue. But, for me, I’m still hungry,” he said.
Anderson is on the brink of becoming the first pacer to pick up 600 test wickets but he admitted his focus was not on personal milestones. The second test will begin on Thursday at the Rose Bowl in Southampton.
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