James Anderson ready for Pakistan

James Anderson is confident that he is an improved player, and says he is fully prepared to play in Pakistan if required by England. Having bowled extensively throughout the summer for Lancashire, picking up 60 wickets, he thinks he is better prepared for international cricket.

Remarkably, this year was Anderson's first full season with Lancashire; having previously bowled just 893 first-class overs in his career, he bowled 512 this year alone. The results, as he himself admits, are marked: "It's helped bowling regularly this season," he told Sporting Life. "I've found a better rhythm and more confidence just through taking wickets and bowling a lot of overs. Playing county cricket has helped because I've just been able to get on with my cricket without having the cameras there all the time and I feel better for having a few overs under my belt."

His poor performance at Johannesburg last winter - the only Test he played during the tour - compelled the England selectors to send him back to county cricket, but Anderson has been in regular contact with Troy Cooley, England's bowling coach, as well as David Graveney. Last week, Cooley praised the spirit and determination that Anderson, 23, has shown throughout the summer: "He's gone back and basically done everything England and Duncan [Fletcher] have asked of him - and that's to become a complete bowler."

His inclusion in the squad of fifth Ashes Test to cover for Simon Jones' absence through injury came ahead of Chris Tremlett, who had been in the previous squads. "Getting called up to The Oval was particularly pleasing," he said. "At the time I didn't think I had a chance because Chris Tremlett had been in all the other squads and he was the obvious choice so it was great to get the phone call and spend some time around the lads for a few days.

"Just to be included gives you a lift. Troy has been good and kept in regular contact and I've also had calls from David Graveney to let me know the selectors were still thinking about me."

Having spent much of last winter carrying the drinks, he is realistic about his chances of playing in any of the three Tests: "It might be another frustrating winter again for me, I know that," he conceded. "But I've never been to Pakistan before and I intend to go out there to learn as much as I can and try and enjoy it."