Even Jimmy Anderson, the ageless fast-bowler, is set to step into a first-class captaincy role with Lancashire. He will captain the side in their two matches against Kent at Blackpool. This decision comes with Marcus Harris heading to Australia for the birth of his second child. At 42 years young, Anderson has already bagged 10 wickets in four matches this season. He now faces the task of bringing success to a team that remains the only winless team in either division of the County Championship.
Lancashire’s woes have continued deeply this season, with the Red Rose having not won in seven County Championship games this year. Their results to date include five draws and two losses. The starting team—way early in the season, certainly, but the turnaround has been remarkable. Twelve months ago they’d been runners-up in all three competitions and were one day away from winning the County Championship title themselves.
Keaton Jennings, the man who had originally captained the side, selflessly stepped down after five tests, allowing space for Anderson’s leadership. Stephen Croft, Lancashire’s interim coach, had no doubts when it came to defending Anderson’s leadership credentials. He pointed to all the excitement around Anderson’s appointment as the new DoT chief.
“Jimmy will lead the side and it is exciting for him and us,” – Stephen Croft
Anderson’s big-game experience and personality should offer a significant lift for the relatively young squad. Croft noted that Anderson is not alone in shouldering the blame. During stretches of the game, his leadership will most certainly energize his teammates.
“He has obviously got a lot to offer on and off the field. It will be a proud moment for him. It is not obviously all on Jimmy but it helps and his presence, particularly as captain, is a massive boost for the rest of the lads,” – Stephen Croft
Lancashire are on the brink of the same fate as Yorkshire last season. After losing each of their opening seven matches, Yorkshire recovered to win five out of the next seven to gain promotion. Croft believes there is similar potential for Lancashire, adding that a handful of early victories could quickly spark their challenge into life.
“The way I’m looking at it and what I will say to the team is this is a pivot in the season,” – Stephen Croft
He pointed to their current success in the Vitality Blast, where they are second in the North Group table having won four from six games. This accomplishment would undoubtedly provide a major emotional shot in the arm for the squad. Perhaps this upcoming break from the Blast will allow Lancashire to regroup and regain their focus.
“We are only a few wins away from right at the top so we can use it as a pivot in the season to get in the right direction. That break with the Blast suddenly those wins seem a little bit more attainable,” – Stephen Croft
Ashton Turner and Chris Green are set to make themselves available for selection after their commitments elsewhere. Their experience would clearly enhance the team and help them finally shake their winless streak. With Anderson at the helm, Lancashire aims to transform their fortunes and get back on track in the County Championship.
Leave a Reply