I have never seen it before: James Anderson left stunned by England’s hattrick of chases

English batters ticked all boxes as they launched an unscathing attack on the Kiwi bowlers in the 3-0 clean sweep. Scores of 277, 299 and 296 all seemed to be a walk in the park for the English batters, who managed to secure three successful chases. To put things into perspective, this was the first time that a side had successfully chased down scores of 250 or more thrice in the same series.

English pacer James Anderson has been left in awe of England’s batting display against the reigning World Test champions. The veteran pacer stated that in his 20 years of International cricket, he had never seen anything like it. 

The veteran pacer talks about the change in mentality

James Anderson praised English batters’ mentality, as they were able to keep their calm. Moreover, they had the belief to chase down the huge totals against some of the world’s finest bowlers. 

“It does feel that way. I have never been in a dressing room before when we have chased almost 300 on a pitch that is turning and everyone being so calm, just believing we were going to chase them down,” Anderson said.

“That, for me, after 20 years of playing international cricket, was something I had never seen before. You always get a few jittery people but from one to 11, and staff included, everyone was just calm and believed. As a bowler, I think it’s horrible! I don’t want to think of someone coming at me like that. But the confidence our batters have got at the moment…they’re just fearless,” he added.

Anderson also spoke on the impending fifth test match against India and said his side is ready for the challenge.

James Anderson missed out on the final Test against New Zealand, as he was rested for precautionary measures ahead of the Indian Test. However, the pacer is expected to be declared fit for the postponed final Test against India, which gets underway on July 1 (Friday). There has been a covid-scare in both sides of the camp, with Ben Foakes catching the virus midway into the third Test against the Kiwis.

Meanwhile, there have been lingering doubts about Rohit Sharma’s participation in the final Test. The Indian skipper contracted the virus, and it seems that he may not recover in time for the fifth Test.