Birmingham, Aug 10: England pacer James Anderson has played a crucial role in England’s dream run in the four-match Test series so far; England currently lead the series 2-0. On the eve of the third match at Edgbaston, Anderson spoke to the media briefly discussing his role in the side and his fitness regime.

Excerpts from the interaction:

On the break before the third Test at Edgbaston

Yes, it’s nice to have [had] three days off before we start again. Next two Tests back to back again, so it’s going to be a hectic couple of weeks for us.

On whether he would appreciate longer breaks between Tests as a fast bowler

Yeah, ideally we would have [liked] a bit longer [break] in between games but the way the schedule is, we can’t do anything about that. We’ve got to try and prepare our bodies as best as we can, go to the gym and make them fit enough to get through the tough periods of Test cricket that we have.

On guiding the youngsters in the Team

I quite enjoy the responsibility because I enjoy talking about the game and if I can help anyone out along the way, I would try my best [to do that]. I have a responsibility [attached] to my role within the side and I think that tries to make me keep my standards high, in practice and in the game.

On whether he does anything special to remain injury-free when he is not playing

Not really. In the build-up to a series we just try and get in the gym and get our bodies strong as once we are in games or in a series, we can’t really go to the gym that much. The schedule, the way it is, an injury could be just around the corner for you so in a way you’ve got be very lucky as well.