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'Look At James Anderson' - McGrath's Advice For Shami To Ensure Longevity In Tests

Mohammad Shami asked to learn from James Anderson by former Aussie legend (X.com)Mohammad Shami asked to learn from James Anderson by former Aussie legend (X.com)

In a candid piece of advice, Australian great Glenn McGrath urged Indian fast bowler Mohammad Shami to follow in James Anderson's footsteps to ensure a long and successful career in the Test format.

James Anderson, the modern-day legend of England's Test cricket history, surpassed a mega milestone in the Dharamsala Test that concluded yesterday. The 41-year-old chipped in his 700th Test wicket to become the third bowler and the only pacer in the history of the sport to do so.

Needless to say, James Anderson has set a new bar for the next generation by defying age and stereotypes that are attached to athletes of his age.

That being said, former Australia pacer Glenn McGrath has advised Indian fast bowlers to learn from Anderson about longevity as the current pack has the tools to achieve something great.

Glenn especially talked about Mohammad Shami, who is currently in rehab to recover from knee surgery. The former Aussie great said Shami has the experience and all the talent to become one of the most successful bowlers in India's Test history. However, the only barrier is age.

"It's tough, but the one thing that bowlers like him (Shami) possess is experience. He's been around for a long time and is an exceptional bowler," said McGrath.

McGrath argued that with age, it's tough for pacers to find motivation to train hard on fitness. However, he urged Shami to take a leaf out of James Anderson's books. Anderson is the epitome of longevity, as the Englishman has 700 Test wickets at 41 and is still going stronger than ever.

"But, as you get older, you still need motivation to train hard, prepare and get out there and perform. Look at someone like James Anderson, who is 41, taking 700 Test wickets and still bowling well. So, you can still be at the top of your game. But as you get older, being a fast bowler it is tough on the body, and it can certainly have an impact in the longer run," he added.

Mohammad Shami was last seen on field during the ICC ODI World Cup held in 2023. The fast bowler battled knee injury which worsened with time. He eventually had to opt for surgery and is currently under rehabilitation. 

His return timeline is still uncertain, but the pacer could likely regain fitness by the ICC T20 World Cup, scheduled in June this year.

In his absence, Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammad Siraj held fast bowling responsibility in the India-England five-game Test series.