We need to focus on doing well down-under: James Anderson

England pacer James Anderson has urged his fellow team-mates to focus on the preparations ahead of the Ashes, as the Ben Stokes’ ‘fight night’ episode continues to hit the headlines. All-rounder Stokes has been names in the Ashes squad but he is currently under investigation and therefore his case is pretty much balanced.

Avon and Somerset Police still investigating the incident that took place outside Mbargo nightclub in Bristol. Anderson, who is the highest wicket-taker of England in Test cricket believes that England can defend the title with or without Ben Stokes.

Anderson confident about their chances

England will fly to Australia on October 28. It will be the pacer’s fourth Ashes campaign down under. “What we need to do as a team, whether the things that are happening happen or not, the next few weeks are about getting yourself ready as an individual to play in an Ashes series,” Anderson told ESPNcricinfo. “From my point of view I’ll be bowling at Lancashire, getting in the gym, trying to stay fit, and getting ready for that challenge when we get over there. That’s all we can do. Prepare yourself as an individual and when we get there, we can galvanise as a team.”

Anderson understands the challenges that awaits the English side once they step into the field. With Stokes‘ episode grabbing headlines, the Aussie fans will leave no stones unturned to have a go at the Three Lions’ batch holders. “You’ve got to prepare yourself for that,” he said “The fans are very passionate about cricket in Australia, but at the same time they are knowledgeable and if you give them something back they’ll embrace it. If you perform well, they’ll embrace it, and respect you for it. What we’ve got to focus on is performing well, and if you can do that, everything else will take care of itself.”