Cricket: Anderson immune to lure of T20 money, aims to stay fit to play Tests instead

Dubai - England have got a new Test captain in the form of Joe Root and James feels he is the right choice

It is impossible to separate money and sports. Players rarely miss a chance to earn quick bucks but England's premier bowler James Anderson has some different ideas. He prefers to stay fit and play Test cricket for the national team.
When asked about his unavailability in Twenty20 leagues in the world, Anderson said: "Everybody has his own priority and in my case I like to keep myself fit and play more and more Test cricket for my country.
"No doubt there are many chances to earn money through participating in T20 leagues in the world but it is not my cup of tea. My main aim is to play and win Test matches for my country which is the ultimate."
England have got a new Test captain in the form of Joe Root and Anderson feels he is the right choice.
"I look forward to playing under Root because he is a phenomenal person. He is the best player in the England side and there are exciting times ahead for England cricket. We have to get ready for the Ashes series because Australia are a much improved side now and if we harbour any hopes to beat them, we need to be at our best."
While talking about the role of T20 in the world cricket, the 34-year-old English fast bowler said: "It is obviously very important and since the emergence of T20 we see more people are involved in the game.
"More players are getting chance to show their talent and we don't see any venues empty during a T20 game. It is a good sign for cricket but for me Test cricket is the pinnacle.
"The authorities need to balance things and in my opinion T20 is not a threat to Test cricket. Both the forms can complement each and cricket will be the winner."
It is an irony that England introduced T20 but they don't have a tournament like IPL, PSL or BBL.
"We have got T20 tournament played by 18 County sides but I think we have been left behind in the money-spinning T20 race.
"It is high time for the authorities to start a tournament like the IPL in England. A top league has become a norm in a big cricketing nation which provides chances to the people on many fronts," England's top wicket-taker said.
"I am really impressed by the facilities in the UAE and it is the best opportunity for teams from England to play themselves into form ahead the summer season.
"It is an ideal weather and we are enjoying our stay in the UAE. I am looking forward to play in the Emirates T20 Cup," Anderson concluded.
liaqat@khaleejtimes.com