ENG vs WI: James Anderson's retirement Test to be spoiled by West Indies? Kemar Roach's bizarre claim

ENG vs WI: James Anderson's retirement Test to be spoiled by West Indies? Kemar Roach's bizarre claim

Updated - 14 May 2024, 02:10 PM

Kemar Roach and James Anderson
Kemar Roach and James Anderson. Image Credit: Getty Images

West Indies cricket team stalwart Kemar Roach is gearing up to spoil legendary England pacer James Anderson's farewell Test at the iconic Lord’s cricket team, as the Caribbean team will face the Three Lions in a crucial three-match Test series in July.

Roach, the Caribbean speedster, has expressed confidence in his team's capability to clinch their first Test series in England since 1988. The upcoming Test series between England and the West Indies will kick off at Lord’s on July 10, followed by the remaining two Tests on July 22 and 26, respectively.

The upcoming Test series is very special for the Ben Stokes-led England cricket team, as their most successful bowler, Anderson, will bid adieu to his illustrious career after the first Test against the West Indies at the home of cricket, Lords. The 41-year-old pacer, who has 700 wickets to his name in 187 Test matches till now, recently announced his retirement.

Kemar Roach confident of West Indies' historic Test series win in England

Well, Roach is riding high on form and determination after delivering a stellar performance of 6/46 in Surrey's 9-wicket over Warwickshire in the ongoing County Championship season on Monday. He stressed that the West Indies have a strong bowling attack to win a Test series against the English team.

Apart from Roach, the West Indies’ Jayden Seales and Jason Holder have also been delivering stellar performances for Sussex and Worcestershire, respectively, in the County Championship, which is further boosting their confidence heading into the crucial Test series in England.

Kemar Roach was quoted as saying by ESPNCricinfo: “It's a very highly talented and skillful group. We've not had the best of times over here in England, so it's more about focusing on us - not what they're going to do for him. He's going to get what he deserves. But it's all about us working hard to get what we deserve, which is a series win over here in England.”

Hopefully, we ruin James Anderson's farewell Test: Kemar Roach

Speaking about the retiring James Anderson, Kemar Roach noted: “He's a great fast bowler, probably one of the greatest. It's sad to see him go, but we all know you can't play forever. He's done fantastically for England and he deserves whatever he gets. First Test match against us… hopefully, we ruin it.”

The 35-year-old pacer further said that Anderson is a highly respected figure and he has always given him great advice. He further hailed the England pacer as one of the greatest to ever grace the game. Roach stated: “I wish him all the best after that Test match, and hopefully he enjoys whatever comes next.”

Well, Roach believes that the West Indies’ current seam attack is one of their best, comprising Shamarh Brooks, Jayden Seales, and Alzarri Joseph, saying it has significant strength and versatility. Roach stressed that these bowling attacks bring an X-factor to the team, capable of delivering devastating spells on any given day, which is crucial for consistent performance.

West Indies haven't won a Test series in England in more than three decades, but Roach hopes the team's current form and confidence will lead to a successful campaign this time around and he wants to deliver a strong performance for his team.

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Kemar Roach James Anderson West Indies National Cricket Team England National Cricket Team ENG Vs WI 2024