England’s summer begins with a one-off Test against Zimbabwe at Trent Bridge next month. A squad will be named at the end of this week.
Injuries to Chris Woakes and Mark Wood will result in an inexperienced pace-bowling department. Gus Atkinson, with only 11 previous Tests, will be the most senior seamer.
Sam Cook, 27, looks set for a first call-up after he was rested from Essex’s Championship match against Somerset earlier this month at England’s request.
Josh Tongue and Matthew Potts will also be in the mix. Brydon Carse is recovering from a foot problem and Jofra Archer, currently at the Indian Premier League, could make his return to red-ball cricket for England Lions when they meet India A in June.
Before Anderson retired England did not have a pace-bowling specialist in their coaching staff. After the 42-year-old ended his record-breaking international career, he remained a near-constant presence in the England dressing room.
But he has signed a one-year deal to play with Lancashire this summer, which he has stated will be his priority, ahead of coaching commitments with England.
Anderson is yet to play this season because of a calf injury and will again miss Lancashire’s Championship match at home to Gloucestershire, starting on Friday. He could re-join the England staff for the Ashes series.