England fast bowler James Anderson is confident of playing in the ongoing Ashes series, despite an injury that prevented his participation in the bulk of the first Test at Edgbaston in Birmingham.

Anderson bowled just four overs in the series opener before being sidelined by a calf injury. He has also been ruled out of next week’s second Test at Lord’s in London.

‘I’m pretty confident I can get over this, I want to keep going. The plan is to get back and play some part in the Ashes,’ said Anderson.

‘I’m sure there will come a point where other bowlers either get injured or need a rest. If one needs to be replaced, it might work out well if I can get myself fit and help towards the end of the series.’

Anderson is 37 years old. His 575 wickets are the most from a fast bowler in Test cricket. Australia’s Glenn McGrath took 563.

‘I’m at the age now when there’s a chance injuries will happen more. It’s something I’ve got to prepare for. But I’m very fortunate, I’ve been lucky with having so few throughout my career,’ he added.

Anderson’s absence overburdened the rest of England’s bowlers in the first Test, which Australia won for a vital lead in the five-Test series.

‘Devastating and horrible are the best words to describe my feelings as I watched the other England bowlers toil in the first Test.  I felt guilty and apologised to the lads for leaving them in the lurch,’ concluded Anderson.

Photo: Gallo Images