Glenn McGrath advises India’s Mohammed Shami to learn about fitness and longevity from England’s James Anderson, emphasizing the need for fast bowlers to adapt and care for their bodies, especially as they age.
Despite praising Shami as ‘absolutely brilliant,’ McGrath highlights the importance of preserving physical well-being. Shami, at 33, underwent successful Achilles tendon surgery after the 2023 ODI World Cup final, while the 41-year-old Anderson showcased enduring performance in four out of five Tests against India, reaching 700 Test wickets in Dharamsala.
During a MRF Pace Foundation event in Chennai on March 9, Glenn McGrath, in conversation with news agency PTI, recommended that Mohammed Shami draw inspiration from James Anderson’s ability to sustain fitness beyond the age of 40.
“It’s tough, but the one thing that bowlers like him (Shami) possess is experience. He’s been around for a long time and is an exceptional bowler, But, as you get older, you still need motivation to train hard, prepare and get out there and perform.”
“Look at someone like James Anderson, who is 41, taking 700 Test wickets and still bowling well,” McGrath said.
“So, you can still be at the top of your game. But as you get older, being a fast bowler it is tough on the body, and it can certainly have an impact in the longer run,” he went on to add.
Continuing, the 54-year-old expressed admiration for the present Indian pace attack, affirming that Jasprit Bumrah and Shami have more to contribute before the reins are handed over to the next generation.
“We have to wait and see the next generation coming through. (Jasprit) Bumrah has still got a bit to go, (Mohammed) Shami is a little older, and (Mohammed) Siraj has been around for a little while but still has plenty left,” he said.
“So, the (current Indian) bowling attack has still some life left. They are exceptional and have done the job for a long time.”
“Shami has been absolutely brilliant as to what he can do with the ball, his control, attitude and the way he adapts are absolutely amazing. You have Siraj, who has done well. You also have Bumrah in the mix, along with the other guys,” McGrath added.
In 36 Test matches, Jasprit Bumrah, aged 30, has secured 159 wickets, while Mohammed Shami, with 64 matches under his belt, has amassed 229 wickets. Meanwhile, the 29-year-old Siraj has accumulated 74 scalps from his 27 matches.
“He’s Definitely Up There” -McGrath’s opinion on Bumrah’s standing in the top three pacers globally
Despite spinners taking the spotlight in India’s Test series victory against England, Bumrah made a significant impact, emerging as the second-highest wicket-taker for the team even after sitting out one game.
When questioned about rating him among the current top three fast bowlers globally, McGrath affirmed his agreement with the notion.
“He’s (Bumrah) definitely up there, there’s no doubt about that. Glad to see him back in international cricket. Despite having to sit some time out with the injury, he possesses quality.”
“He’s unique with the way he bowls, but he has got a great attitude. He runs in hard all day, bowls in great areas, along with a good pace,” the Aussie legend said.
“Although he has a different run-up and action compared to most other bowlers, he has found a way to take wickets and be successful,” McGrath concluded.
Ravichandran Ashwin claimed the most wickets for India with 26 in the Test series against England, while Bumrah secured 19 dismissals in four Tests at an average of 16.89.
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