Srinagar: Australia and fast bowling legend Glenn McGrath has suggested India’s premier pacer Mohammad Shami to take motivation from England’s James Anderson in his Twilight years of International career.
“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. So, the (current Indian) bowling attack has still some life left,” McGrath was quoted as saying by PTI.
“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. So, they are indeed in a great position,” he added.
Among the three, Shami is the oldest at 33 and McGrath feels that the challenge to remain fit and stay motivated becomes harder for an ageing fast bowler.
“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,” said McGrath.
“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. 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 added.