Mohammed Shami is a little older: Glenn McGrath

When one talks about cricket, the spotlight often shines brightly on the batters, but Glenn McGrath's recent remarks stresses on the crucial role that bowlers play in shaping the game. With India's formidable pace duo of Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami hitting their prime at 30 and 33, McGrath highlighted the importance of longevity in their careers. He suggested that drawing inspiration from England's James Anderson could be beneficial, and emphasised the significance of body maintenance and fitness for Indian bowlers.

In a historic moment for cricket, James Anderson, the seasoned English pacer, achieved a monumental feat on Saturday, becoming only the third bowler to secure 700 Test wickets, and first seamer to achieve the mind-boggling feat. Despite being 41, the Lancashire pacer's endurance defies age, elevating him as the premier fast bowler to reach this remarkable milestone in Test cricket. India might have clinched the Dharamsala fixture, but the veteran English pacer was the talk of the town.

“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,” said McGrath as quoted by Hindustan Times.

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You still need motivation to train hard, prepare and get out there and perform: McGrath

McGrath's attention turned towards Shami, presently sidelined due to a left-ankle injury. His absence traces back to his last outing in the ODI World Cup, where he battled through injury. Since then, he missed both India's tour of South Africa and the five-Test series against England at home. Recently, the Indian pacer underwent a successful Achilles tendon operation, casting doubt on his participation in IPL 2024, as his recovery progress remains uncertain.

"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. 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.