Here's what Chris Silverwood said about Morgan and Anderson's retirement
What's the story
England have a new head coach in the form of former Essex boss Chris Silverwood. Following his appointment, there were rumors that he could drive England skipper Eoin Morgan and veteran James Anderson to retirement. However, Silverwood has cleared the air, stating that Morgan and Anderson have earned the right to decide when to call time on their illustrious careers. Here is more.
Do you know?
Anderson nursing calf injury, to miss New Zealand tour
As of now, Anderson is not in the England squad for their upcoming tour of New Zealand, as he is nursing a calf injury. However, he is undergoing intense rehabilitation and training at Manchester City's Etihad Campus, for the next couple of months, for fitness.
Automatic selection
Anderson and Stuart Broad automatic selection choice for Silverwood
Meanwhile, speaking about the selection of bowlers in the side, Silverwood was quick to point out that pacers like Anderson and Stuart Broad are automatic choices in the squad, provided they remain injury-free. "When you look at the amount of wickets they've got between them it's phenomenal. Jimmy's great. He takes wickets, he's got a lot of knowledge in there," said Silverwood to AFP.
Quote
Silverwood hails Anderson as phenomenal
"I think it will be up to him to let us know, and I think he will when he's had enough, but who wouldn't want a world-class bowler like him in the line-up? He is phenomenal. He gets wickets all around the world," added Silverwood.
Morgan's future
Silverwood unsure of Morgan's future post ICC World T20 2020
Silverwood is also highly impressed in the manner Morgan has led England's limited-overs sides, as he aims to provide him with all the support, as long as he wishes to continue. "He's earned the right to tell us when he's had enough, but certainly, we've got to have one eye on transitioning that period," concluded Silverwood.
Author's take
Do Anderson and Morgan need to retire by now?
Anderson is one of the greatest pacers in Tests, having claimed 575 wickets in 149 matches at an average of 26.94. Furthermore, Morgan has had a phenomenal run in the limited-overs as a captain, with a win percentage of 62.16 in ODIs, followed by 57.89% in T20Is. Thus, the author feels there is no need for either to call time on their careers yet.