borofan wrote:Diamond Dog wrote:Copehead wrote:
We've been lucky to be able to watch a team with him and Anderson in as they will always have a chance.
We won't be able to watch that much longer, well after today really. Anderson must be getting near the end too although he is still our best bowler by a distance.
I know everyone always talks about Anderson needing the conditions etc but, even in unfavourable circumstances, he rarely gets shredded. He is a wonderful bowler all the time, just absolutely unplayable when the right conditions exist. At 35 there can't be too much left in the tank but you'd think he'd like to finish off with a home Ashes series (next season), wouldn't you?
Anderson said a few weeks ago that he wants to carry on for another 3 years. Not sure that he can last that long, but gives an idea of what he reckons he's got left in the tank. Undoubtedly one of the most skilful seam bowlers there's ever been. Remember how well he bowled last time England played Pakistan in UAE - absolutely nothing in the pitches for him, but bowled so tightly that all Pakistan did was see him off and wait for the spinners.
Drew level with Glenn McGrath today, Kumble might be in reach if he continues that long, Warne and Mulli probably not. But 3rd on the all time list and highest pace bowler/seamer would be a fitting end to a stellar career. Broad is top 10 as well, what a stunning attack they have been, Broad is streaky but you don't get top 10 by just being streaky. They are both unplayable when they get the conditions and hit the groove.
How lucky we have been to live in the Cook/Anderson/Broad era. With Root looking to join that list.