England pacer James Anderson has come out in support of debutant duo of Chris Woakes and Simon Kerrigan, describing the day 1 Oval Track for the fifth Ashes Test as ‘lifeless’.
"It was a tough day for us but it was a pretty lifeless pitch to be honest. It's difficult to say whether (this XI) worked after one day," said the England pacer at the conclusion of play on Wednesday.
Anderson added that it now the job of the senior members in the side to lift the morale of left-arm spinner Simon Kerrigan, who had a miserable debut being smashed for 53 runs in his eight overs.
"The guys in the dressing room have a job to do tonight. We have to rally round him and keep his spirits high. He's had one bad day. He can come back tomorrow and come back strong, show everyone he can do it.
"Anyone can have an off day, not just a debutant...even if you've played 80 Tests you need people to help pick you up,” said Anderson who plays alongside Kerrigan at Lancashire.ref:star sports
