In the first Ashes 2023 Test at Edgbaston, England‘s early declaration did not result in the expected outcome as Australia made a remarkable comeback on the fifth day to secure victory.
Despite the English bowling attack’s commendable performance, Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon exceeded expectations by forming an unbroken 55-run partnership to secure the victory.
Ben Stokes faced criticism from various sources, but prior to the series, he vowed to adhere to the ‘Bazball’ approach regardless of the game’s situation. The first Test provided a clear indication of how the series will unfold.
After a relatively placid pitch in Birmingham, Lord’s offers a greener track for the second Test. It is expected to assist the new ball bowlers, including Jimmy Anderson.
The five leading bowlers for England at Lord’s in Test cricket
5. Bob Willis
Willis, who claimed 47 wickets in nine matches. Despite undergoing knee surgery in 1975, Willis had a highly successful career in England.
He excelled against Australia, with his best figures of 8/43 achieved in Leeds in 1981. Known for his unique bowling action, ability to consistently hit the wicket, and generate pace and bounce, Willis was a lethal option for his captain.
He was also honoured as the Wisden Cricketer of the Year in 1978 before retiring in 1984 after playing 90 Tests for England.
4. Fred Trueman
Fred occupies the fourth spot with 63 wickets in 12 matches. Considered one of cricket’s greatest bowlers and one of England’s fastest, Trueman became the first player to capture 300 Test wickets.
His Test debut came against India in 1952, and he played his final Test against New Zealand in 1965, representing England in 67 Tests. Trueman’s exceptional wicket-taking prowess was evident at the Mecca of Cricket, where he claimed 63 wickets.
3. Ian Botham
Ian Botham one of the finest all-rounders in cricket history and a legendary figure for England, takes the third position with 69 wickets in 15 matches. Botham thrived on the Lord’s surface, utilizing his hit-the-deck bowling style to great effect.
His notable performance came in 1978 against Pakistan when he dismantled their batting lineup, finishing with remarkable figures of 8/34. Botham’s contributions provided a balanced presence for the English team, and he was a genuine match-winner during the 1970s and 80s.
2. Stuart Broad
Stuart Broad, a cornerstone of England’s pace attack, sits at number two with 108 wickets in 27 matches. Broad has been a game-changer in English conditions, often delivering remarkable spells when the team is in a tough situation. He shares a similar reputation with his bowling partner Anderson and boasts an impressive record at Lord’s.
Following a strong performance in the opening Test, Broad aims to continue his dominance over the Australian batsmen at Lord’s and add to his wicket tally.
1. James Anderson
James Anderson is arguably the greatest swing bowler in cricket history, with 117 wickets in 27 matches at Lord’s. Anderson has consistently made the ball talk, particularly in overcast English conditions.
His ability to consistently hit the same spot and generate movement with both the new and old ball has allowed him to remain at the pinnacle of the game for nearly two decades.
Although he faced difficulties in the first Test and expressed disappointment with the pitch, Anderson, even at the age of 40, has defied expectations.
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