James Anderson Recalled to England Squad for Fourth Ashes Test at Emirates Old Trafford

In a significant development ahead of the fourth men's Ashes Test, James Anderson has been given the nod to rejoin the England team at his home ground, Emirates Old Trafford. After being rested for England's triumph in the third Test at Headingley, Anderson replaces Ollie Robinson as the sole personnel change for the upcoming match.

Adding to the reshuffle, Moeen Ali will now bat at No. 3, a change from his previous position at No. 7 during the first innings in Leeds. This alteration was made upon Moeen's request to allow Harry Brook to return to his favored No. 5 spot. While Moeen's performance in the new role only yielded 5 runs, Brook's notable knock of 75 validated the decision. England has decided to retain their batting order, with Ben Stokes set to bat at No. 6, while Jonny Bairstow retains his wicketkeeping duties and occupies the No. 7 position.

Prior to the Headingley Test, England captain Stokes had hinted at Anderson's inclusion in the Manchester fixture, indicating that Anderson needed rest to prepare for his return at Old Trafford. Anderson, who recovered from a groin injury sustained during his county team Lancashire's match, had initially struggled to regain his top form. Nevertheless, his longstanding new-ball partner, Stuart Broad, believes that Anderson was unlucky due to the timing of his injury and the nature of the pitches.

Broad expressed his confidence in Anderson's ability to overcome these challenges and deliver a strong performance, particularly at Old Trafford, a venue where Anderson has excelled in the past. Anderson boasts an impressive record at his home ground, having taken 37 wickets at an average of 22.02 in ten previous Tests, including a crucial role in last year's series-levelling victory against South Africa.

While Anderson acknowledged the sentimental aspect of playing at his Lancashire home ground with his 41st birthday approaching, he emphasized that his selection for the Old Trafford Test should not be based on nostalgia alone. In a Telegraph column, Anderson acknowledged that his performance and fitness would be the key factors in determining his place in the team.

The promotion of Moeen Ali to the No. 3 spot came about when he approached Brendon McCullum on the third evening of the third Test and proposed a reshuffle. Stokes commended Moeen's selfless approach and his willingness to contribute to the team's success. The England captain praised Moeen's proactive attitude in seeking opportunities to positively impact the game, highlighting the team's values and ethos.

The confirmed England XI for the fourth Test includes Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett as the opening pair, followed by Moeen Ali at No. 3, Joe Root at No. 4, Harry Brook at No. 5, Ben Stokes as captain at No. 6, Jonny Bairstow as the wicketkeeper-batsman at No. 7, Chris Woakes at No. 8, Mark Wood at No. 9, Stuart Broad at No. 10, and James Anderson at No. 11.

As the highly-anticipated Ashes battle continues, England will look to Anderson's experience and skill to make a significant impact in the crucial fourth Test at Emirates Old Trafford.