
James Anderson and Stuart Broad were disappointed with the board’s decision of not picking them for the upcoming series against West Indies. England’s captain Joe Root insisted that the senior duo could win their places back in England’s side before the summer.
ESPNcricinfo reported that Anderson addressed his exclusion publicly for the first time, stating that he was shocked and disappointed by the decision on Wednesday. He also said: “a five-minute phone call [with interim ECB managing director Andrew Strauss] doesn’t really clear much up.”
Broad expressed that he feels confused and angry with the board’s decision.
Joe Root emphasized that the Windies tour would be an exciting challenge for the team. Chris Woakes and Mark Wood would be the player to look up to in the absence of two key new-ball bowlers. Root stressed that this is a “real opportunity” for Woakes and Wood to lead the bowling attack.
Root showed immense respect towards Anderson and Broad, Root stated in a press conference as ESPNcricinfo reports, “I’ve got a huge amount of respect for both of them. It’s been made very clear no one is saying this is the end for them.” He also said that Broad and Anderson have been the leaders of attack for England in the past and have had a lot of success and deserve a huge amount of respect. Root also expressed that he would love to see Broad and Anderson at the start of the next season.
Anderson and Broad also said that they are both in great shape and are looking forward to being back in the country colors in summer.