'I would like to go out on a nice note' - James Anderson on his retirement plans
"I don't want to drag it out and people are thinking: 'Can you just do one'. I would like to be able to go out on a nice note" said Anderson.
Crickate
Prior to the upcoming Ashes, veteran England fast bowler James Anderson discussed his retirement intentions. Anderson, often regarded as the most successful seamer in the history of Test cricket, shows no symptoms of aging and does not appear to be retiring anytime soon. Since his fortieth birthday, he has taken 28 wickets in the longest form of the game at an average of 17.7.
Anderson acknowledged that he does not wish to "drag it out" and stated that he would like to retire on a positive note. He added that he expects to be in the same position as Eoin Morgan, England's World Cup-winning captain who retired from international cricket last year.
"I don't want to draw it out and people are thinking: 'Can you just do one'. I would like to conclude on a positive note. Last year, Morgs awoke and knew it was time to call it a day. Anderson told the Telegraph, "I'm just hoping that is the case."
I consider myself fortunate to be in a position to make a choice: Anderson
The 40-year-old continued by stating that he feels fortunate to be in a position where he can make a decision because, as a bowler, it is typically taken out of their hands due to injury or selection. He added that it will be fine to go out on his own terms, but you'll have to wait and see when that time comes for you.
"I feel fortunate to be in a position where I can make a decision because, as a bowler, decisions are typically made for you due to injury or selection. It would be great to go out on my own terms, but it remains to be seen when that will be," he added.
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Anderson did not participate in the recent one-off Test between England and Ireland, but he is confident that he will be alright against Australia. In the 2019 Ashes, he only bowled four overs before a calf injury forced him to miss the entire series. He claims that the injury is not as severe this time because he has had more time to recuperate.
"I felt I had let down the men. Unfortunately, it is possible. This time around, the injury is less severe. I have had more time to rest, recuperate, and strengthen it. "I will have to be truthful about my emotions," he said.
