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‘It’s Been A Shame' - James Anderson Wanted To Face Virat Kohli In IND Vs ENG Tests

James Anderson has claimed eight wickets so far this series (BCCI)James Anderson has claimed eight wickets so far this series (BCCI)

Seasoned English speedster James Anderson seems to be dissatisfied with the absence of Virat Kohli from the Indian squad in their ongoing five-match Test series in India.

The 41-year-old cricketer, who is nearing the 700-wicket landmark figure, recently praised Kohli and also acknowledged their gripping battles they have shared in Test cricket over the years.

James Anderson hails Kohli amidst IND vs ENG Tests

Batting legend Virat Kohli opted himself out of the Indian squad from their ongoing five-match Test series against England citing personal reasons.

James Anderson, who is possibly on his final Test tour of India, recently lamented missing out on bowling at his arch-nemesis Kohli. The legendary England fast bowler acknowledged his past battles with the Indian batting icon, and also described him as one of the best players in the world.

While speaking with JioCinema, James Anderson said:

“You always want to play against the best players. And it’s been a shame that he’s not been a part of the series. We have had some great battles over the years. I guess English fans will be thankful he’s not playing because he’s such a quality player. But not just for me, I think as a team you want to play against the best in the world and he certainly is that.”

James Anderson has dismissed Virat Kohli 10 times in international cricket, including seven times in Tests alone. Kohli, meanwhile, averages 43.6 against the English paceman in red-ball cricket.

Remarkably, Anderson is nearing a significant milestone in his profile. As of now, the 41-year-old needs just two more wickets to complete 700 wickets in Tests to become only the third bowler in history and the first fast bowler to get to the landmark figure.

The cricketer will now take field for England in the fifth and final Test of the series against India at the HPCA Stadium in Dharamshala. The much-awaited contest will be staged between March 7 and March 11.