James Anderson offered England fast-bowling mentor role after retirement

Legendary pacer James Anderson is set to retire from international cricket after the first Test against West Indies at Lord’s, which will begin on July 10. The most successful seamer in history was advised to call his time after the Ben Stokes-led side decided to start fresh in the summer, with many options available for selection.

However, Anderson may not part ways with the national team. England managing director Rob Key mentioned that the 41-year-old has a lot to offer and can guide the young pacers on the side. Key added that Anderson has been offered the role of a mentor in the team and the cricketer has shown his interest but hasn’t signed the contract. There’s a belief that the Burnley-born cricketer may keep playing County cricket for Lancashire, but nothing has been finalised. The ball remains in Anderson’s court and a decision will be made after his retirement.

“When we asked him, he was keen. He is going to have a lot of options. English cricket would be very lucky if he chooses to stay in the game. What he does with Lancashire will probably work out after the Lord’s Test. We've got some conversations to have after to find out what he thinks is the best thing to do. Everything so far has been him gearing up for this Test match” Key was quoted as saying by BBC.

Also Read: England name squad for first two Tests vs West Indies

We feel Jamie Smith is going to have a fantastic international career: Key

England named uncapped Jamie Smith in the squad for the West Indies series. Speaking about that, Key mentioned that Smith is extremely talented and has the qualities to have a fantastic international career. However, in the presence of Jonny Bairstow and Ben Foakes, Smith may fail to get into the playing XI.

Also Read: Reports: Jamie Smith to make Test debut for England against West Indies

“Sometimes you're selecting people for what they're going to be as well, and where you think they can progress to. It's very much the start for Jamie Smith. We feel he's going to be a fantastic international cricketer,” Key added.