James Anderson not thinking about retirement

England has not lost a Test since the partnership of Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum as captain and coach. James Anderson wants to maintain that success streak against South Africa as well. At the same time, the 40-year-old pacer, who is very confident about his personal rhythm, is ready to surprise.

Under the leadership of Stokes, the English have won all four Tests so far. This was where Joe Root and Jonny Bairstow presented a new brand of Test cricket. This time their opponents at home are the Proteas. Experienced Anderson wants to make an important contribution to the team in that series.

Anderson said, ”I still do experiment with my bowling. I think I am improving day by day. Everyone improves with experience. Age is not an issue. Work hard every day with specific goals. I think about sewing balls, and trying to make new types of balls. I try to keep the seam a little hidden so that the batsmen do not understand the swing of the ball properly.”

About his fitness and retirement, the English pacer said, ”My body is fitter now than when I was 20 or 21 years old. The ache that I feel in my body after working all day in the field is common to all. It was painful to even when I was young. But now my body is more mature to handle them.”

Talking about his love for Test cricket and his fondness for pairing Stuart Broad with the red ball, Anderson said, ”I enjoy every minute of Test cricket. I enjoy it even in adverse situations. Test cricket is great. There is no better cricket for me. So I want to play Tests as long as possible. Not thinking about retirement right now.”