James Anderson opens up on Ashes participation, says players need some clarity

Dark clouds are looming over the upcoming Ashes between Australia and England. Given the strict COVID-19 restrictions in Australia, many England players are mulling over skipping the series. The players are concerned about not being able to travel with their families and serving the two weeks quarantine.

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Most of the players will play in the T20 World Cup as well thus they could be in the bio-bubble for close to three months, which they are not ready to do. The ECB and CA are working together to find a middle ground as the series is very important for both boards.

ECB has tried to assure the England players that their families will be allowed to accompany them. However, nothing is confirmed officially which is why England players are not taking anything for granted.

Talking about England players' participation in the Ashes, veteran pacer James Anderson said players need clarity before they can take a call on their Ashes participation.

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“There are obvious doubts over the Ashes tour and a lot of uncertainty about families travelling and quarantine rules,” Anderson said as quoted by mirror.uk

Anderson further revealed that he personally doesn’t have any issues in travelling to Australia as he only plays Test cricket. He said his family has already said they won’t travel to Australia due to the quarantine restrictions.

"My family have already said they are not going to Australia.

"My kids are in school, the youngest has exams and there is no way they can do two weeks quarantine because by the time they come out I will be playing a Test match and might only see them for a few days before they have to go back for the start of term."

Meanwhile, Ashes bound England players - Jonny Bairstow, Dawid Malan, Chris Woakes and Jos Buttler have pulled out of the IPL due to the strict bubble life. The move could be an indication that players are keen on boarding the flight to Australia for the Ashes.