Thaindian News

Melbourne, Aug 3 (ANI): England fast bowler James Anderson will be a force to reckon during the Ashes series even if conditions are not exactly to the swing specialist’s liking, according to coach Andy Flower.

England captain Andrew Strauss believes there is no one better in world cricket than Anderson when the ball is swinging.

But the biggest challenge for Anderson will be to bowl with the Kookaburra ball used in Australia, which offers less assistance to swing than the Dukes brand ball used in England.

“It was a superb performance. We know what he can do when the ball swings,” The Age quoted Flower, as saying.

“If (Muttiah) Muralitharan came across a glass-like pitch he would be less effective than he is when he bowls at Galle. That is the same for any bowler - they have conditions that suit them more one day than the other.

“It is important for them to learn to adapt. He (Anderson) is learning, certainly. He is a better bowler than he was. He is a very experienced bowler now, and we do rely a lot on him - regardless of conditions,” Flower said.

Flower was also impressed by the Trent Bridge contributions of Steven Finn and Eoin Morgan.

Fast bowler Finn, returning from a mid-season strengthening programme, was on target straight away, while Morgan’s 130, his maiden Test century, was made when England badly needed a major first innings contribution from the former Ireland left-hander. (ANI)