Former England batter Ian Bell has highlighted the significance of veteran pacer James Anderson’s experience for England’s upcoming tour of India. As England prepares for a challenging five-match Test series against India in January next year, Bell emphasizes Anderson’s role as a bowler and a mentor for the next generation of fast bowlers in the team. Bell also discusses the adaptability of the ‘Bazball’ strategy and the need for England to be smart in their approach during the tour.
Ian Bell acknowledges the importance of James Anderson’s experience in the context of England’s tour of India. With the retirement of Stuart Broad, Anderson’s role as a senior player becomes even more crucial. Bell points out that Anderson’s reliability to bowl economically and his vast experience will be valuable assets for England, especially in Indian conditions. Additionally, Bell notes that Anderson will play a significant role in developing England’s emerging fast-bowling attack.
The reference to ‘Bazball’ alludes to the bowling strategy used by England during the Ashes series. Bell suggests that this strategy, effective against Australia, will also be used against India. However, he emphasizes the need for adaptation and smart tactics to cater to the specific conditions and challenges posed by Indian pitches. Bell commends England’s ability to learn and adapt during the Ashes series and underlines the importance of applying the same approach in India.
“One player England don’t need to worry about losing just yet is James Anderson. Just because Stuart has retired doesn’t make him more likely to follow suit in my opinion. England will need his experience in India, not to mention that reliability to bowl dry. He will have big job helping this next England seam attack develop,” said Bell.
Bell highlights England’s ability to learn and adapt as a key factor in their performance during the Ashes series. He attributes their success to their willingness to adjust their strategies as the series progressed. Bell expects a similar approach in India, where England must be proactive, flexible, and intelligent in their game plan to counter the Indian team’s strengths.
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“As Ben Stokes said in the press conference the other day, he’s been asked whether Bazball would work against Pakistan, South Africa, Australia. So, yes, it will be used in India. But it will be an adapted Bazball. That’s what was so good about the Ashes. England showed they could learn and adapt as the series went on. In India they will need to be smart,” Bell added.
James Anderson’s recent performance has drawn attention due to his slightly subdued form in the Ashes series. Bell acknowledges that Anderson’s performance did not meet expectations, as he managed to pick up only five wickets at a relatively high average. Bell clarifies that Anderson’s dip in form was not due to his age but rather a lean patch that even the best players go through.
