Anderson likely to play in Boxing Day Test
England fast bowler James Anderson has boosted his chances of playing in the fourth Ashes Test match, with an impressive performance in the nets at Melbourne ahead of the game. As a result, England might take on http://www.senore.com/Cricket/Australia-c746 with their regular outfit in the
Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).
Anderson dispelled fears over his fitness with an untiring bowling performance in the first net session, following the visitors embarrassing loss in the third Test in Perth. The right-arm bowler impressed the fitness staff with his agility in practice drills,
and energetic effort with the ball in the nets. Anderson has already said in an interview that he is feeling good about himself, and is ready to take on the Kangaroos in the potential series decider.
Right arm seamer Steven Finn also impressed the selectors with a lively performance in the nets. Steven showed decent tempo and stamina, bowling more than 15 overs in order to stake his claim ahead of the fourth Test. His selection for the upcoming Test
was in doubt, after his average performance in Perth. Finn registered modest figures of five for 183 in 36 costly overs in Perth. The 21-year old is the highest wicket taker in the series, although his high bowling average of 33 runs per wicket is an evidence
of his higher economy rate.
The pitch in Melbourne is conducive to reverse swing, as the red cherry softens up quite early on a grassless pitch. That is why http://www.senore.com/Cricket/Ajmal-Shahzad-c42489 might also come into consideration for the Boxing Day encounter, as he is known for his skills with the old ball. Chris
Tremlett, who replaced the injured Stuart Broad for the last Test, bowled brilliantly in Perth. The tall fast bowler troubled the opposition with his pace and extra bounce, and his persistent seam bowling earned him healthy dividends. He recorded impressive
figures of three for 63 and five for 87, respectively.
England Captain Andrew Strauss said ahead of the game, “It has been a demanding Test series, especially with our reliance on only four bowlers, and Stuart Broad didn't bowl in the second innings at Adelaide. So the bowlers have had quite a lot on their shoulders,
but I don't think that's a reason for him not to play.”
Strauss added, “ We must look at the conditions here and decide what type of bowling attack will most suit, and also how fresh Finny is and the rest of the bowlers before we make any decisions."
The five match series is perfectly poised at 1-1, with two more matches to play. The Melbourne Test could be a potential series decider. If England manages to seal victory in the Boxing Day Test they will be taking the Ashes back home, even if Australia
clinch the fifth Test.
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