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'They Will Pick..', James Anderson Opens Up On His Chances Of Playing in Manchester Test

image-ljy75ebaAnderson's modest outings in first 2 Tests prompted England to drop him in Headingley Test [AP]

England's cricketing legend, James Anderson, might get recalled to the Ashes for the England side at his home ground Old Trafford. Anderson was sidelined in the last Test despite being hailed as England's greatest-ever bowler.

However, with the upcoming Ashes Test taking place at Anderson's home ground, Old Trafford, Manchester, there is speculation that he may finally make a comeback. 


'They will pick the strongest team' - Anderson 

Although Anderson's return would undoubtedly please the passionate Lancashire fans, the victory achieved by England in the previous Test creates uncertainty regarding any changes to the playing XI. 

The team's success may deter the selectors, Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum, from altering the winning combination. The star player rested at Headingley after taking three wickets at Edgbaston and Lord's combined. Stokes and head coach Brendon McCullum have been suggested to exclude Anderson again after England's attack impressed in Leeds.

Even though Anderson has a revered end named after him at the ground, it seems unlikely that he will pose any concerns to Stokes and McCullum if he remains excluded.

With England's hopes of regaining the Ashes hanging in the balance, winning against their arch-rivals, Australia, in Manchester is crucial. After losing the first two Tests at Edgbaston and Lord's, England managed to narrow the gap with a thrilling three-wicket triumph at Headingley on Sunday.

In his column for The Telegraph, Anderson acknowledges that Stokes and McCullum will prioritize selecting the strongest team capable of competing against Australia in the Ashes.

He wrote:

"Jimmy Anderson bowl at the Jimmy Anderson End. They will pick the strongest team to compete with Australia that particular week. I am completely happy with whatever they decide." 

Meanwhile, the legend also admitted to being too serious and intense during the first two Tests and promised to go out with a smile on his face if given the opportunity to compete at Old Trafford.

Furthermore, it is worth noting that Mark Wood's impressive performance and Chris Woakes' valuable contributions in the previous match make it highly probable that England will stick to their winning combination in Manchester. 

As the penultimate Ashes Test draws near, all eyes will be on the selectors and their decision regarding James Anderson's role in the team. Whether Anderson will grace the field at his beloved home ground or continue to support the team from the sidelines remains to be seen.