Kemar Roach and James Anderson. (Source -Twitter/X)
West Indies fast bowler Kemar Roach has set his sights on disrupting James Anderson’s farewell Test match at Lord’s in July, challenging his team-mates to thwart England’s plans for their veteran seamer’s grand exit.
After a quiet start to the County Championship season, Roach’s stellar performance against Warwickshire, claiming six for 46, signals a resurgence in form for the West Indian seamers, including Jayden Seales and Jason Holder, who have impressed in the domestic circuit. With the Joseph duo, Shamar and Alzarri, also in contention, West Indies boast one of their most formidable pace attacks in years, eyeing a historic away series win against England, a feat not achieved since 1988.
In light of Anderson’s impending retirement, Roach remains focused on West Indies’ objectives rather than the farewell spectacle, emphasizing the importance of securing a series victory on English soil. Reflecting on Anderson’s illustrious career, Roach hailed him as “one of the greatest” fast bowlers, acknowledging his significant contributions to English cricket.
“First Test match against us…hopefully, we ruin it,” Roach said smiling. He’s always given me great advice as well. He will go down as one of the greatest to ever do it. I wish him all the best after that Test match, and hopefully he enjoys whatever comes next,” Roach added.
“It’s a very highly talented and skilful group,” Roach said at the Kia Oval on Monday, as quoted by ESPN Cricinfo. “We’ve not had the best of times over here in England, so it’s more about focusing on us – not what they’re going to do for him. He’s going to get what he deserves. But it’s all about us working hard to get what we deserve, which is a series win over here in England.”
Despite turning 36 next month, Roach displays no signs of slowing down, attributing his recent success to diligent work with Surrey’s coaching staff. Emphasizing his commitment to the game, Roach remains determined to extend his career, driven by a desire to mentor younger players and contribute to the team’s success. With two more games left in his current stint with Surrey, Roach aims to maintain his stellar form and aid his team’s quest for a third consecutive Championship title.
“I felt good,” he said. “It’s been a tough couple of weeks for me, trying to work on some things, but it’s always good to get rewards for some hard work. As a fast bowler, you always want to see the stumps flying around. I’m building with Surrey. [I want to] get myself in good physical shape, the right mental space, and then when it gets to the West Indies tour, I will build on that.
“I have no retirement time in sight. I think I can go as long as I want, but obviously it’s all on performances. The older you get, you need to have performances to stay in the team. I’ve been doing well, but I just want to keep helping the youngsters so they’re in a good space, mentally and physically. I’ll be happy to see those guys going after me and breaking those records if they have to,” he added.