International Cricket: Jim Boree

Broad backs pal to play in 5th Ashes

- Dean Wilson

Jimmy Anderson has been backed to extend his career by up to a year thanks to the coronavirus break, increasing his chances of a remarkable fifth Ashes tour.

As Anderson’s new-ball partner for more than a decade, Stuart Broad knows more than most what the 37-year-old “magician” is capable of, and he reckons a few extra miles can be added to the clock thanks to their enforced lay-off.

The most successful fast bowler in Test history, with 584 scalps, would be 39 by the time England head to Australia next year and recent injury issues surrounding his calf and his shoulder suggested it might be a tour too far.