India can’t complain about swing-friendly pitches: James Anderson

England and India are gearing up to lock horns in a five-match Test series, starting from August 4. With this series marking the beginning of the second World Test Championship cycle, both teams would be raring to emerge victoriously. India, barring their defeat to New Zealand in the inaugural WTC final, have done well in the longest format lately. Hence, it would be interesting to see how they perform against Joe Root’s men.

Besides players and teams’ performances, pitches will also be in focus in the upcoming series. If one may recall, there was a lot of hullabaloo over spin-friendly tracks when England traveled India earlier this year. The visiting team players struggled constantly on turning tracks and many experts bashed the nature of the tracks. This time, however, the Three Lions hold the home advantage and one can expect them to prepare lush-green pitches assisting swing bowlers.

India used home advantage to their benefit: James Anderson

Speaking of the same, England pace spearhead James Anderson reckoned that Team India shouldn’t complain about grassy pitches. “I don’t think India can have any complaints if we do leave a bit of grass on because of what we came up against on our tour of India last time. India used home advantage to their benefit. A lot of teams around the world do it,” Anderson said in a conversation with select journalists.

“If there’s grass left on it, India have got a strong seam attack as well. It’s hard to judge a pitch three days out. I am sure they are going to trim some grass and roll it. It was quite soft yesterday. I would be hoping for some good pitches with pace and carry. Quite often it will swing here so it needs to carry,” he added.

Anderson, the fourth-highest wicket-taker in Test cricket, will certainly possess a massive threat to Indian batters. He has a plethora of experience of playing in these conditions and his numbers speak volumes of his abilities. However, Anderson’s fitness will also be tested in this series. The veteran pacer turned 39 recently and it would be interesting to see if he plays all five matches.