Glenn McGrath advises India's Mohammed Shami to learn about fitness and longevity from England's James Anderson, emphasizing the need for fast bowlers to adapt and care for their bodies, especially as they age.

Despite praising Shami as ‘absolutely brilliant,’ McGrath highlights the importance of preserving physical well-being. Shami, at 33, underwent successful Achilles tendon surgery after the 2023 ODI World Cup final, while the 41-year-old Anderson showcased enduring performance in four out of five Tests against India, reaching 700 Test wickets in Dharamsala.

During a MRF Pace Foundation event in Chennai on March 9, Glenn McGrath, in conversation with news agency PTI, recommended that Mohammed Shami draw inspiration from James Anderson’s ability to sustain fitness beyond the age of 40.

It’s tough, but the one thing that bowlers like him (Shami) possess is experience. He’s been around for a long time and is an exceptional bowler, But, as you get older, you still need motivation to train hard, prepare and get out there and perform."

"Look at someone like James Anderson, who is 41, taking 700 Test wickets and still bowling well," McGrath said.

“So, you can still be at the top of your game. But as you get older, being a fast bowler it is tough on the body, and it can certainly have an impact in the longer run,” he went on to add.

Continuing, the 54-year-old expressed admiration for the present Indian pace attack, affirming that Jasprit Bumrah and Shami have more to contribute before the reins are handed over to the next generation.