Strauss is boosted by Anderson return in his bid for total perfection
ENGLAND captain Andrew Strauss admits he’s hoping the return of seamer James Anderson will provide the spark that was missing during the second Test at Lord’s.
Sri Lanka arrive at the Rose Bowl ahead of today’s final Test of the three-match series needing a win to secure a creditable draw and will feel confident of pushing England following their encouraging rearguard action last week.
But the return of Anderson (right), coupled with the absence of the tourists’ skipper Tillakaratne Dilshan, is likely to see an improved output from an England attack which fell below its recent high standards at HQ.
“We all know what an important part of our bowling he is,” said Strauss of Anderson, who is likely to replace Steven Finn. “He’s been very consistent and accurate in his performances for a long time now, so hopefully he’ll be fit and leading the attack.”
On England’s performance at Lord’s, Strauss added: “We’re not happy with what we did there.
“Not every Test match is going to be perfect for us. But we still should be aiming and striving for the perfect Test every time.”