James Anderson To Bid Farewell To Cricket After England’s First Test Against West Indies At Lord’s
James Anderson became the first fast bowler to claim 700 Test wickets when he had India's Kuldeep Yadav caught behind earlier in 2024.
New Delhi: After rumours of James Anderson retiring from Test cricket at the end of the summer floated in on Friday, the legendary fast bowler announced on Tuesday that the first Test of the summer at the Lord’s will be his last in international cricket. England will play West Indies from July 10 at Lord’s which will be Anderson’s farewell game.
“Hi everyone. Just a note to say that the first Test of the summer at Lord’s will be my last Test,” Anderson posted on social media. “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,” added the first pacer to claim 700 Test wickets.
The 41-year-old also thanked his family for supporting the whole time during his playing career. “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,” added Anderson before announcing his love for golf.
“I’m excited for the new challenges that lie ahead, as well as filling my days with even more golf. 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. See you at the Test, Go well. Jimmy,” he added.
A day before, reports came out that England head coach Brendon McCullum flew down to United Kingdom from his native New Zealand to speak with Anderson over a round of golf about the latter’s future. England plays three Tests each against the West Indies and Sri Lanka, with one of them coming at Manchester’s Old Trafford, where Anderson has a stand named after him.
Anderson has made 187 Test appearances — only India great Sachin Tendulkar (200) has more — since his debut in 2003 and is the only pacer to reach 700 wickets in the longest format. Only spinners Shane Warne and Muttiah Muralitharan have more Test wickets.
Anderson, who turns 42 in July, has taken just 15 wickets in his last eight tests at an average of 50.8. Stuart Broad, his longtime new-ball partner for England, retired from cricket last year.
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