Pakistan rookie fast bowler Naseem Shah has hailed England’s veteran fast bowler James Anderson. Shah said he has learned a lot from the swing master and will continue to learn from him. The youngster lauded Anderson’s career longevity as the experienced fast bowler has been a consistent performer for the English team over the years.

Anderson has played 175 Test matches in his glorious career, which is the second most in the format. Furthermore, the right-arm pacer has snared 675 wickets, which is the third-highest behind Muttiah Muralitharan and Shane Warne.

Naseem Shah said in the pre-match press conference, “He is a legend. I have learned from him and will continue to learn from him. I think it is a big achievement for him that he is still playing and is very fit. That shows how much hard work he has been doing. He knows everything about bowling, having played everywhere in the world, so he is one of the best.”

The youngster added that he is ready to lead Pakistan’s bowling attack in the upcoming series against England. The 19-year-old is optimistic to deliver the goods for Pakistan. Shah has taken 33 wickets in 13 Test matches at an average of 36.3, including a hat-trick in the red-ball format.

“Shaheen was also injured in Sri Lanka, so even then I took responsibility and I am again ready for that. When your best bowler gets injured, it makes a big difference, so we have to take that responsibility and use the new ball well.”

Meanwhile, Shaheen Shah Afridi has been ruled out of the series with a knee injury. Pakistan’s Haris Rauf is expected to make his Test debut against England.

England is touring Pakistan after 17 years for the Test series and the first Test between these two teams will be played at Rawalpindi from December 1.