However, Anderson shone in the series, and was picked for Englands World Cup team in 2003. Here, Anderson showed both the pace and accuracy that had got him his place, and the erraticness that was to be his downfall in subsequent years. Against Pakistan, he produced a mouth-watering spell, taking 4 wickets to earn himself the man-of-the-match. Just two weeks later though, he conceded 23 runs in one over to gift eventual champions Australia victory, in what turned out to be Englands last game in the tournament. Anderson made his test debut against Zimbabwe at Lords in the summer of 2003, and became only the 17th Englishman to take a 5-wicket haul on his debut. Anderson continued to impress against Pakistan, South Africa and Zimbabwe in one-day internationals to become one of Englands brightest prospects with the ball. However, Anderson faltered in the test series against South Africa, and despite keeping his place for tours of Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and South Africa, he was underused, and struggled with rhythm and confidence. Anderson returned to Lancashire a shadow of the bowler he used to be, but Lancashire showed faith in him, often turning to him when in need of a wicket. It was this form that led to Anderson being considered for the final Ashes test of 2005. All-rounder Paul Collingwood was selected, but at least Anderson was back in the selectors mind. I the following tour to Pakistan, both Shaun Udal and Liam Plunkett were selected infront of him, knocking Andersons confidence once again. Anderson expected to spend the winter of 2005 touring the West Indies with Englands A-team, but instead was called up to the first team after Simon Jones suffered a recoccurence of his * injury. Anderson responded well, taking 4-40 in his only test, as England beat India to level the series

Bookmark or share this story with:

• Digg
• Delicious
• Facebook
• Reddit
• Stumbleupon

SPORTNETWORK SPECIALS

• Think you know your sport? Click here to try the Sportnetwork Prize Quizzes