James Anderson, one of the greatest quick bowlers to have played for England, announced his retirement from international cricket after a resounding victory over West Indies by an innings and 114 runs during the first Test at Lord’s on Friday.
On the third day of his last Test match which also marked his 188th appearance in the whites, Anderson managed to take a wicket ending his illustrious career.
Before kick-off, an emotional Anderson walked onto the pitch to a guard of honor from fellow players and received applause from fans. Nevertheless, within minutes there was nothing else but cricket as he dismissed Joshua Da Silva for nine in only his second over of the day’s play – this was strike number 704 for him.
As a result of that wicket taken by Anderson, West Indies were now unlikely to force the hosts to bat again.
Da Silva was quickly followed by Alzarri Joseph who scored eight runs. Another aggressive late fight back came from Joseph who even hit Atkinson hard through mid-off with all anger borne out of frustration after he sent down no balls. However, this attempt ended soon when he top-edged Atkinson into twin Duckett’s gloves thereby giving him his tenth scalp in test debut.
Another such dismissal occurred later when Shamar Joseph registered only three before being clean up by Atkinson.
Joseph’s fall left Gudakesh Motie alone against English bowlers. Though not out on 31,Motie displayed resistance on several occasions including one drive through cover that left at least two fielders diving towards it and another chase across the boundary line as well as away from it by Anderson. A slight lapse saw Motie almost present Anderson with catch number 705 as he drove straight down the ground; however, Anderson put down an easy chance which meant that it didn’t happen on this day.
No further redemption would come for Anderson in terms of adding another scalp or two to his name though.
Duckett then caught Seales off Atkinson to wrap up the game, with eight runs added to West Indies all out for 136. For England this marks a well won victory in seven sessions.
The second Test of this three-match series resumes at Trent Bridge next Thursday between these two countries.
