James Anderson to remain England vice-captain for New Zealand Tests
Written by News on 13/03/2018
England have decided to retain James Anderson as vice-captain instead of handing the role back to Ben Stokes for the upcoming Tests against New Zealand.
Experienced seamer Anderson replaced Stokes for this winter’s Ashes series, once it became clear the Durham all-rounder would not be available.
Stokes missed the 4-0 defeat to Australia while he waited to discover if he would be charged over a late-night incident outside a Bristol bar last September.
He has now rejoined England in New Zealand, having pleaded not guilty to affray, but will face trial in August alongside two other men.
Ahead of two warm-up matches prior to the two-Test series against New Zealand, Anderson has been named captain Joe Root’s deputy once more.
Anderson told BBC Test Match Special: “I’m delighted Joe has asked me to do it again for this series.
“Being a vice-captain doesn’t make me behave any differently in the dressing-room or on the field.
“It doesn’t change my role in the team a huge amount.
“I see myself as a senior player and I’m there for people if they need advice.
“Certainly, if Joe needs help on the field, I’m there for him.
“I know what my job is for the team – I’ve got to take wickets with that new ball, create pressure during the middle periods as well, try to take wickets, and help the other bowlers out as well.
“It’s a big group effort when we go on the field, so it’s important that we get that right.
“Again in the dressing-room, it’s trying to get people relaxed and ready to play Test cricket.”
(c) Sky News 2018: James Anderson to remain England vice-captain for New Zealand Tests
