James Anderson. Little more needs to be said about the England great. Having made his international cricket debut in 2002, a time before some modern cricketers were even born, the leading wicket-taker in the history of English cricket is saying goodbye to the game, as he plays his last test match today (10 July 2024). It is a momentous but also a sad day for cricket. Particularly for English cricket.
The Lancashire-born cricketer has been one of the stalwarts of the game. A name associated with accuracy, pace, and wicket-taking prowess. James Anderson is a name that will be missed in the world of cricket. Whilst much has been made of the events behind the scenes that led to his decision to retire from Test cricket, it is important to not lose sight of the accomplishments of this modern-day great. And now the news is breaking that another accolade, Knighthood, is not too far away from the Englishman.
James Anderson – Bitter Sweet Retirement
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It’s going to be a sad day for cricket when the England pacer, the leading wicket-taker in all formats of the game combined, and the third-highest wicket-taker overall, trails behind Muttiah M Muralidaran and Shane Warne with 700 wickets. To add to his many records, James Anderson is also the highest wicket-taker in the game as a pacer. So saying farewell to a 22-year career will be tough. But all is not all bad news.
Whilst the England management has decided it is time for Anderson to move on, there is another accolade waiting soon: Knighthood. Andrew Strauss, former England captain and opener, has called for the knighting of the pace bowler. That retirement is the right time for Great Britain to honor this great player ambassador of the game and proud citizen. And few if any would oppose this call. If this comes to pass, James Anderson will join the ranks of Andrew Strauss and Alastair Cook.
James Anderson – In Sight of Shane Warne’s Record
A couple of things will be going through the mind of the England great. Besides the fact, a very big one, that this is the last international appearance representing his country, there is also the small matter of Shane Warne’s bowling record of 708 test wickets. James Anderson is eight behind with two innings to play, provided the West Indies bat twice.
The question is will he get it? A few things will need to go his way. As mentioned, if England plays poorly and is forced to follow on, then the chances will go down. And even if does have two full cracks at the opposition nothing is guaranteed in the game of cricket. However, the deeper question is, will Anderson even care? This is his last game. It would be about finishing on a high, the records can take care of themselves.
Goodbye James Anderson
For those who followed the international game of cricket, this will be a sad occasion. For England fans especially. A player who has outlasted players who made their debuts after him and have retired before him! There will be a lot of emotions on the day and no doubt the spectators will be waiting for something special from England Quick. Above all a win for England will be a fitting send-off to the legendary pacer, who is among the very best the sport has had to offer.
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