Jimmy Anderson raises England worries after huge total posted at World Cup

Jimmy Anderson revealed his concern for England players’ safety ahead of the run chase against Bangladesh at the Cricket World Cup. Jos Buttler’s side posted a large total of 364-9 on Tuesday but a dodgy outfield at Dharamsala was a worry heading into the second innings.

England needed to bounce back after their thrashing by New Zealand in the tournament opener last Thursday. The Kiwis won by nine wickets with over 13 overs remaining in Ahmedabad.

It was a reality check for the reigning champions who were way below their usual standards. Preparations for the second match in Dharamsala were affected by the poor state of the outfield, which had clear bare patches.

Concerns were raised ahead of the clash, with fears that the chances of injury to outfielders were increased. Anderson was on commentary duty for the match as Dawid Malan smashed a stunning 140 to lead England to a big total.

Read more… Freddie Flintoff clip shows icon speaking for first time since Top Gear crash

Cricket World Cup diary: England aim for first win

We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you’ve consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info

But towards the end of the innings, Anderson admitted he was worried what impact the outfield would have when England were in the field. He said on BBC’s Test Match Special: “You can see why Jos Buttler was worried about this pitch. The bowling strip isn’t too bad, it’s chasing on the outfield, that is what I am worried about.”

Bangladesh didn’t pick up any injuries due to the outfield as Joe Root and Jonny Bairstow also struck half-centuries. Anderson also praised Najmul Hossain Shanto for his catch to dismiss Sam Curran at long off despite the poor conditions underfoot.

He said: “Great catch, a lot of talk about the outfield. To take a catch like that on this, you have to be fully committed. It was good bowling too, it was held back a bit, a genuine off-spinner.”

England skipper Buttler had stressed his concerns about the outfield ahead of the match. The wicket-keeper admitted his team were going to adapt and not field in their usual manner.

Don’t miss…
South Africa face same ban as rugby team at Cricket World Cup due to governme…[NEWS]
England trying to find job for Freddie Flintoff with Ben Stokes ‘a big fan'[REPORT]
Yorkshire cricketer at centre of racism storm hits out at ECB report[REACTION]

He said: “It’s poor in my own opinion. I think any time you’re sort of talking about being careful diving or sort of being careful when you’re fielding, it sort of goes against everything you want to be as a team.

“You know you want to dive through our houses to save a run. So that’s obviously not ideal, the way the surface is, the outfield. But we won’t use it as an excuse, we’ll adapt to it.

“But certainly, if you feel like you’re having to hold yourself back, it’s not a place you want to be as a team or player, or in a World Cup match. Injuries can happen at any time, on any surface, but I think it’s definitely one where you’re going to have to be a little bit careful, which isn’t what you want to be doing playing for your country.

“So, it’s not as good as it could be or should be, but it’s going to be the same for both teams, and the wicket looks fantastic.”

Source: Read Full Article