Share

England's Anderson in injury scare

Birmingham - James Anderson, England's all-time leading wicket-taker, is in danger of missing the fourth Test against Australia and possibly the rest of the Ashes series after suffering a side injury at Edgbaston on Thursday.

Anderson left the field three balls into his ninth over in Australia's second innings of the third Test at Edgbaston with what appeared to be a side strain.

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) subsequently released a statement via Twitter saying Anderson had a "tight side" and would be "assessed overnight".

Anderson's absence on Thursday did not harm England unduly, with recalled fast bowler Steven Finn taking five for 45 as Australia closed on 168 for seven - a lead of just 23 runs with three days left in the match.

England are still in pole position to go 2-1 up in the five-match series, even if Anderson doesn't bowl again in this match.

But they would dearly love to have him fit in time for next week's fourth Test at Trent Bridge.

However, England great Ian Botham said he feared Anderson would be ruled out of the series.

"If it's an intercostal, we won't see him again in this series," the former pace bowling all-rounder said on Sky Sports.

"You can't sneeze, can't cough, can't laugh. You have to let it heal."

Anderson, who celebrated his 33rd birthday on Thursday, has a brilliant record at Trent Bridge.

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
26% - 1273 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1470 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2249 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE