England’s Anderson out of fourth Ashes Test

England paceman James Anderson has been ruled out of the remainder of the third Ashes Test against Australia at Edgbaston and next week’s fourth Test at Trent Bridge, it was announced on Friday. Anderson, England’s all-time leading Test wicket-taker, left the field three balls into his ninth over in Australia’s second innings on the second day at Edgbaston on Thursday -- his 33rd birthday. 

An England and Wales Cricket Board statement issued Friday said  that, following an overnight assessment, he had suffered a side strain. “England bowler James Anderson has been ruled out of remainder of the current Investec Ashes Test with a side strain,” they statement said. “Anderson will be unavailable for the fourth Test beginning on Thursday 6 August at Trent Bridge and his availability for the final Test in the series (at The Oval on August 20) will be determined in due course.” 

Anderson, whose 413 Test wickets are an England record, took an Ashes-best six for 47 as Australia were skittled out for just 136 in the first innings at Edgbaston. Recalled fast bowler Steven Finn then took five for 45 on Thursday as Australia slumped to 168 for seven in their second innings, a lead of just 23 runs with three wickets standing. But Anderson’s injury could hamper England’s bid to go 2-1 up in the five-match series on Friday as bowling substitutes are not allowed under cricket’s rules or Laws, although a replacement fielder is permitted.