It’ll be an end of era this English summer as the legendary cricketer James Anderson will bid adieu to his remarkable cricketing career. Anderson will play the last test of his career against West Indies at the home of cricket Lord’s from July 10.
“Hi everyone. Just a note to say that the first Test of the summer at Lord’s will be my last Test,” Anderson wrote in an Instagram post. “It’s been an incredible 20 years representing my country, playing the game I’ve loved since I was a kid. I’m going to miss walking out for England so much. But I know the time is right to step aside and let others realise their dreams just like I got to, because there is no greater feeling.
“I couldn’t have done it without the love and support of Daniella, Lola, Ruby and my parents. A huge thank you to them. Also, thank you to the players and coaches who have made this the best job in the world.
“I’m excited for the new challenges that lie ahead, as well as filling my days with even more golf,” he added. “Thank you to everyone who has supported me over the years, it’s always meant a lot, even if my face often doesn’t show it.”
Anderson will end his 21-year long International career, having made the international debut in the year 2003. He currently is the highest wicket taking pacer in the longest format of the game with a staggering 700 wickets from 187 tests.
Anderson made his test debut against Zimbabwe in 2003. In the last test against India at Dharamshala, he became the first fast bowler to reach 700 test wickets. He is just 9 wickets away from becoming the second highest wicket-taker in test cricket, just behind the late Shane Warne.
In his long career, Anderson bagged a total of 32 five-wicket hauls and 3 ten-wicket hauls. He additionally scored 1353 runs with the bat, with 81 being his highest that came against India at the Trent Bridge on 2014.
Even at 42, the pacers fitness has not been an issue. He’s been up and about whenever his side has required his services. However his dipping form in the past year or show meant that the coming of the inevitable was just about time.
