Ashes 2019: England dealt massive James Anderson blow

After going 1-0 down in the series, England have been dealt with some further bad news. Pace spearhead James Anderson who only bowled four overs in Edgbaston has been ruled out of the second Test at Lord’s. The pacer was struggling with a stiff calf during the first Test and won’t recover in time for the second Test.

England and Wales Cricket Board released a statement on Anderson’s injury, which read:

“England seam bowler Jimmy Anderson, who left the field during the first Specsavers Ashes Test match against Australia at Edgbaston on day one (Thursday, August 1) due to tightness to his right calf, underwent an MRI scan this week. The MRI confirmed that Anderson has suffered a calf injury. As a result of the injury, he will commence a rehabilitation programme working with the England and Lancashire medical teams. Anderson will miss the second Test match, which starts at Lord’s on Wednesday, August 14. He will be reassessed on an ongoing basis regarding his availability for the rest of Specsavers Ashes series.”

In his absence, World Cup hero Jofra Archer is likely to be handed his Test debut. Archer too has been struggling with a side strain and will play a three-day game for Sussex to prove his fitness. Sam Curran could also be in the fray to play in the second Test. England’s bowling resources have already been stretched thin with Mark Wood’s injury prior to the start of the series.

Anderson’s fitness will now be assessed on an ongoing basis. England will hope that their record wicket-taker will be fit for the third Test. The second Test match will begin at Lord’s on August 14.