James Anderson excited for series decider vs Windies at Lord's
Friday 1 September 2017 17:11, UK
James Anderson believes England’s second Test defeat to the West Indies has set up a "really exciting decider" ahead of the third and final Test at Lord's.
Windies stunned England with an incredible series-levelling, five-wicket victory on day five of the second Test at Headingley earlier this week.
Although Anderson admitted his side were not at their best, he feels the leveller has set the scene for an enticing end to the Test summer when the sides reconvene next week.
"I thought the West Indies were much better than us overall in those five days and it has set up the Third Test to be a really exciting decider," the leading all-time England wicket-taker told Sky Sports News.
"It was obviously disappointing from our point of view.
"We thought we were creating some momentum after the South Africa series and winning the first Test but I thought the West Indies played really well."
England won the first Test by an innings and 209 runs at Edgbaston but were pegged back in Leeds as captain Joe Root opted to end his side's innings with two wickets in hand on the fourth evening - a decision which ultimately allowed the tourists a way back as they hunted down 322 in tremendous style.
"It was obviously disappointing from our point of view. We thought we were creating some momentum after the South Africa series and winning the First Test but I thought the West Indies played really well," Anderson said.
"They outplayed us all five days.
"From our point of view we knew there was quality in that West Indies side and we know that they would want to bounce back after a heavy defeat at Edgbaston, so we made sure that we prepared the way we wanted to and I think they played a lot better than us during the five days."
England named an unchanged squad for the decider which begins on September 7 live on Sky Sports Cricket and Sky Sports Main Event, but Anderson feels there will be other chances for those looking to break into the squad to prove themselves before the Ashes gets underway in November.
"I think it's healthy for us to have competition," he added.
"I think there are guys in there who have had an opportunity and will have wanted to score more runs than they have, but there is still one Test left before the Test summer is over so there is still an opportunity for guys to put their hand up for a touring spot in the winter.
"I think there are always places up for grabs. There are bowlers and batters playing well in county cricket trying to force their way into the selector's thoughts for the winter.
"That's the beauty of cricket and sport - you have always got that opportunity to go out there and to try and put in a performance to give the selectors a nudge."
