David Saker, England’s Australian bowling coach, has drawn comparisons between James Anderson and Graeme Swann and the legendary Australian duo of Glenn McGrath and Shane Warne.
McGrath and Warne were recognized as the premier seam and spin bowlers of their era, with leg-spinner Warne considered one of cricket’s all-time greats.
However, Saker argues that the synergy between paceman Anderson and off-spinner Swann echoes the famed McGrath/Warne partnership. Despite the English pair amassing a total of 455 Test wickets together, it seems unlikely they will reach the remarkable combined total of 1,271 wickets that the Australians retired with in 2007.
Nevertheless, the contributions of Anderson and Swann, with Anderson leading the attack and Swann typically serving as the only specialist spinner, cannot be overlooked in England’s ascent to the top of the world Test rankings – a feat solidified by their series-clinching, nine-wicket victory over the West Indies at Trent Bridge.
Saker, who formerly played as a seam bowler for Victoria and Tasmania but never featured in Test cricket for Australia, emphasized, “When Jimmy and Swann bowl in unison, it sometimes resembles the partnership of McGrath and Warne.”
“While McGrath and Warne together were exceptional, I’ve witnessed spells from Jimmy and Swanny that at times were just as good, if not better.”
“In Sri Lanka (earlier this year), especially late on day four during the second Test, there were moments when these two reminded me so much of McGrath and Warne. They applied immense pressure on the Sri Lankan batting line-up, resulting in wickets falling.”
Currently, Anderson is positioned third in the International Cricket Council’s bowling rankings, with Swann in fourth and Stuart Broad in sixth.
Tim Bresnan made a significant leap, advancing 10 spots to 15th after taking eight wickets at Trent Bridge, and Saker noted that the depth of England’s bowling lineup reflects the successful Australian squads of the 1990s and early 2000s.
“While McGrath was the standout, they also had Brett Lee, Jason Gillespie, and Andy Bichel…all fantastic bowlers,” he remarked.
“This current group possesses remarkable skill. They excel at quickly assessing conditions. If swinging conditions are present, they adhere to our original strategies.”
“If not, they adapt with alternative plans.”
“Their skill set is impressive; they can execute conventional swing and, recognizing that it may not be effective, transition to reverse swing and alter their attack methods – this adaptability is a tremendous asset.”
As England coach Andy Flower and the selectors deliberate on whether to rest Anderson and Broad for the upcoming third Test at Edgbaston, with the series already decided and an extensive schedule of international cricket approaching, Saker expressed his views.
“I anticipate that players like Anderson and Broad would dislike the thought of missing a Test since it limits their opportunities to accumulate Test wickets,” Saker explained.
“However, taking a Test off occasionally might ultimately extend their careers since those wickets can be earned later. It’s a matter of perspective.”
“We’ll probably take a couple of days to discuss this, and Andy along with the selectors will evaluate whether resting them is appropriate. Input from the players and the medical team will be crucial.”
“There’s a demanding schedule ahead, with Tests and one-dayers, so making decisions that serve English cricket’s best interests is essential.”
Buford Balony comments: Piss off Saker, you are a twit.
