England fast bowler James Anderson will not bowl again in the first test against Sri Lanka after a scan revealed a minor side strain, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) said on Saturday. "Scans have shown James Anderson has a grade one (left) side strain and will not bowl for the rest of the first test match," an ECB statement said.
"He will bat as it poses minimal risk of further damage. His involvement in the second test will be determined following assessment after the match." Anderson, the world's third-ranked bowler, was England's best performer in Sri Lanka's first innings total of 400 when he claimed three for 66 from 28 overs, including the key wickets of Kumar Sangakkara, Mahela Jayawardene and Thilan Samaraweera - who all average over 50 in tests.
But he received treatment on Friday and was able to bowl just one over after tea. England closed on 47 for one in their first innings on the second day with Anderson unbeaten on one as night-watchman. His injury leaves England's bowling attack light for the remainder of the match with just Stuart Broad, Chris Tremlett and Graeme Swann as regular bowlers. Part-time bowlers Jonathan Trott (6) and Kevin Pietersen (1) shared seven overs in Sri Lanka's innings.
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