In the ongoing fifth and final test against India in Dharamsala, England’s James Anderson achieved a significant milestone by becoming only the third bowler and the first seamer to claim 700 test wickets. The 41-year-old, who is already the most successful fast bowler in test cricket history, entered his 187th test just two wickets short of the 700-mark.
On Friday, Anderson clean bowled Shubman Gill, and on day three of the contest, he reached his 700th victim when Kuldeep Yadav was caught behind. The moment Anderson achieved this feat, he held the ball aloft while being mobbed by his team mates.
Amidst the cheering of the travelling ‘Barmy Army’ fans, Anderson led his team off the field at the innings break at the picturesque Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association stadium. He now joins the elite company of Sri Lanka’s Muttiah Muralitharan, who leads the all-time wickets chart with 800 wickets from 133 tests, and Australia’s Shane Warne with 708 wickets.
Known for his immense skill and remarkable longevity, Anderson’s smooth action as a fast bowler continues to impress fans and followers of the game. Former England bowler Steven Finn praised Anderson, saying, “At the foothills of the Himalayas, James Anderson has reached the insurmountable summit for a fast bowler in test match cricket.”
Finn added, “Nobody will ever take more than 700 test wickets as a fast bowler. He’s a remarkable man and player and he’s still going.” Anderson made his debut for England in a one-day international against Zimbabwe in 2022 and played his first test five months later against Australia.
Throughout his 22-year career in international cricket, the Lancashire player has established himself as a complete bowler who excels in swing bowling, both traditional and reverse. Anderson’s command on the ball has made him a force to be reckoned with on the cricket field.
As Anderson continues to make history and achieve new milestones, his dedication to the sport and his unwavering commitment to excellence have solidified his legacy as one of the greatest fast bowlers of all time. His incredible achievements serve as an inspiration to aspiring cricketers around the world, showcasing what can be accomplished through hard work and perseverance.
With each wicket he claims, Anderson further cements his place in cricketing folklore, leaving behind a lasting impact on the game that will be remembered for generations to come. His passion for the sport and his ability to consistently deliver stellar performances have earned him the respect and admiration of fans, teammates, and opponents alike.
As Anderson reflects on his journey and looks ahead to the future, his legacy as a cricketing legend is secure, with his name etched in the annals of the sport’s history. The impact and influence of his remarkable career will continue to inspire and awe cricket enthusiasts for years to come.
(Reporting by Amlan Chakraborty in New Delhi; Editing by Clarence Fernandez)
