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Xtra Time Web Desk: England's Test bowling consultant and former pace spearhead, James Anderson, has drawn attention after opting out of the team’s Pakistan tour for the first Test in Multan. Instead, Anderson was seen participating in a pro-am golf tournament in Scotland. His decision has sparked speculation and criticism, with some questioning why the veteran chose golf over helping England’s inexperienced bowling lineup prepare for Pakistan's tough conditions. However, England’s management has defended his choice.

Anderson, who retired from international cricket after his final Test against the West Indies in July 2024, transitioned into a bowling consultant role for the remainder of the series. Despite this, he decided not to accompany England for their first major tour to Pakistan—a venue where he has previously played. His absence was made more conspicuous when he was spotted golfing alongside ex-England players like Kevin Pietersen and Michael Vaughan.

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Kevin Pietersen, Michael Vaughan, James Anderson and Mark Nicholas enjoy a day of Golf !! ????#IraniCup #T20WorldCup #TilakVarma #HarmanpreetKaur #SuryakumarYadav #PAKvsENG #AbhishekSharma #SanjuSamson pic.twitter.com/X610vNQl9W

— Cricketism (@MidnightMusinng) October 5, 2024

In response to the criticism, England head coach Brendon McCullum voiced full support for Anderson, explaining that his plans were communicated in advance. McCullum dismissed the concerns surrounding Anderson’s absence, saying,"We have no concerns about Jimmy being out there swinging his clubs. I actually thought he’d miss the cut and be here earlier, but he’s playing well. For us, it’s not an issue at all... The communication’s clear, and we look forward to having him with us and hearing more about his golf swing. He’s doing a great job. I’m not worried."

McCullum further clarified that Anderson, who is on a part-time consultant contract, will join the team by day two of the Test. He added that the decision was mutually agreed upon and shouldn’t be a problem, even if it raised eyebrows because Anderson chose golf over traveling with the squad.

James Anderson has still got that beautiful swing ????

The England legend shows his golf chops at the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship ????️ pic.twitter.com/wInAMeOZmq

— Jerry Bach (@JerryBach333066) October 5, 2024

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The main concern over Anderson’s absence stems from the inexperience of England’s bowling attack. Apart from Jack Leach, the likes of Gus Atkinson, Shoib Bashir, Chris Woakes, and debutant Brydon Carse have little to no experience on Pakistan pitches, where Anderson’s expertise could have been invaluable.