After ending Day 1 wicketless, the 40-year-old speedster made a significant impact as he dismissed Australian captain Pat Cummins with the very first delivery on Day 2. Resuming their innings at an overnight score of 299-8, Australia faced a challenging start to the day.
It all unfolded in the 84th over of Australia’s first innings when Anderson delivered a perfectly pitched-up ball around off. Cummins attempted a drive, but the ball found its way straight into the hands of England’s all-rounder Ben Stokes at cover point. Stokes displayed impeccable reflexes and took a sharp catch, giving England the breakthrough they were looking for without any difficulty.
With this crucial wicket, Anderson not only brought relief to the English camp but also put pressure on the Australian batting lineup. The Aussies were eventually bowled out for 317 in their first innings, with Josh Hazlewood becoming the victim of Chris Woakes.
With this wicket, Woakes also recorded his first fifer in the Ashes series.
Here’s the video of Pat Cummins’ dismissal:
First ball… WICKET!
Jimmy Anderson strikes with his very first delivery of the day#EnglandCricket | #Ashes pic.twitter.com/OL5l0ll6pj
— England Cricket (@englandcricket) July 20, 2023
Meanwhile, Anderson – who is just 11 wickets away from achieving the remarkable milestone of 700 wickets in Test cricket – showcased his class and experience at his home ground.
It’s worth noting that Anderson was left out of the playing XI in the third Test at Headingley, which England impressively won by three wickets. His impactful performance in the ongoing fourth Test serves as a reminder of his importance to the English side.
As the match progresses, England aims to secure a victory in the fourth Test, setting up a thrilling decider in the fifth and final game at the Kennington Oval.
For latest cricket news & updates, visit CricketTimes.com.