Jimmy Anderson ruled out of the first Test against South Africa

A calf strain will keep Jimmy Anderson out of the first Test in Durban. This is certainly a setback to England's hopes. Softening the blow somewhat is news that Steven Finn has been declared fit and will almost certainly make the XI.

My best guess is that Chris Woakes will replace Jimmy in the team and the XI for Durban will be: Cook ©, Hales, Compton, Root, Taylor, Stokes, Bairstow (wk), Moeen Ali, Woakes, Broad, Finn

That is an incredibly deep batting lineup, but a rather thin bowling attack. You never like to see any players missing out through injury, especially match winners such as Jimmy. Hopefully this doesn't linger and he will be fit enough for the second Test.

injuries starting to hamper anderson's career

Unfortunately, I think Jimmy has reached that age now where these types of injuries and niggles are common occurrences. I know that he had previously talked about wanting to play for another five years, but I think that is wishful thinking on his part.

After turning 33, pace bowlers seem to fall off a cliff - whether it be through old age, injuries or a lack of pace and consistency.

From a statistical perspective, 294 pace bowlers have appeared in a Test match after turning 33, just 8 of them have taken 100+ wickets. A total of 20 seamers (less than 7 per cent) have taken 50+ wickets.