James Anderson ruled out of second Ashes Test with calf injury

James Anderson, the most prolific fast bowler in Test history, has been ruled out of the second Ashes Test with a calf injury.

James Anderson

The Lancastrian left the field having bowled just four overs in Australia’s first innings in the first game of the series, and only returned to bat at No.11 in both innings as England slipped to a 251-run defeat.

There was speculation throughout the game over his continued involvement, with the 37-year-old undergoing practice sessions and scans, but as well as playing no further part with the ball in the first Test, he has also now been ruled out of the second Test. An MRI scan confirmed that Anderson has a calf injury, and he will commence a rehabilitation program working with the England and Lancashire medical teams.

The right-armer came into the game under a cloud, having not played since June due to an injury to the same calf, though he passed every fitness test required by the ECB. His availability beyond the second game of the series is unknown, and England are yet to name their squad for the Lord’s Test, which begins on Wednesday, 14 August.