Legend James Anderson, an English quick bowler, said goodbye to his illustrious Test career at Lord’s with a resounding win over the West Indies.
At 41 years old, Anderson’s last appearance on the global stage displayed his trademark self-control and restraint as he took three wickets at a cost of 32 runs in 16 overs during England’s innings-and-114-run victory within three days.
The committee of selectors for England were already in agreement with Anderson that this first Test match of the series would mark his farewell from national duty and signal the commencement of team rebuilding ahead of the Ashes series in Australia scheduled for 2025/26.
By retiring, Anderson ends what has been an incredible career comprising 188 Tests where he picked up a record 704 wickets behind only spinners Shane Warne (708) Muttiah Muralitharan (800) among all time greats. Only Sachin Tendulkar (200 matches) has played more Tests than Anderson.
He stated that “It’s been quite an amazing week. I’ve been overwhelmed by how many people have supported me with everything that happened during my time here.”
To quote him some more,” Obviously this morning was quite emotional with the two teams line up and the reaction from the crowd was pretty special.” He wanted to go on and say something else about his tears but could not utter any meaningful words apart from adding that, “I’m still trying to hold them (tears) back now but I think I am just really proud.”
He went further to say that “Playing for 20-odd years is an incredible effort, especially for a fast bowler, so I’m just happy that I’ve made it this far, happy that I’ve been lucky enough to stay injury-free pretty much throughout my career.” “Playing cricket for England is one of the best jobs you can ever have” so says Ben Stokes who has spent quite a while in the position.
Anderson, said England captain Ben Stokes, “Is such an incredible inspiration to so many people.” And he added that his achievements were “absolutely phenomenal.”
As Anderson’s career came to an end, another player emerged in the name of virgin fast bowler Gus Atkinson. whom was award the man of the match award due to his outstanding figures of 12 wickets for 106 runs. While reflecting on how Jimmy had influenced him since childhood, he further adds: “Growing up, Jimmy was someone I would come to Lord’s and watch. It was amazing.”
“Brathwaite” West Indies captain summarized one may say what other batsmen who have faced Anderson used to think by saying “He is a legend of the game. I won’t miss him at all!”
