James Anderson, England’s legendary pacer with 700 wickets in 187 Tests, is set to retire after his final Test at Lord’s, where he made his debut in 2003.
James Anderson is preparing for an emotional farewell as he ends his international career at Lord’s, where he debuted in 2003. One of England’s greatest cricketers, Anderson retires as Test cricket’s most successful fast bowler, with 700 wickets in 187 Tests, only behind Muttiah Muralitharan (800) and Shane Warne (708).
England’s management had decided Anderson, 41, would retire, believing he wouldn’t make the next Ashes at 43. A packed Lord’s is expected to bid him farewell. However, Anderson is focusing on performing well and winning in his farewell match at Lord’s to avoid becoming overwhelmed with emotion.
“I’m trying not to think too much about the game itself yet, or certainly how I’d feel about it. I’m trying to be as focused as I can. The big thing for me this week is wanting to play well, bowl well and get a win. I’m sure the emotions during the week will change, but right now that’s what I’m trying to focus on to stop myself crying,” Independent quoted Anderson as saying.
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Last summer, England celebrated Stuart Broad’s farewell in a fairytale fashion as he hit his final ball for six and took the last wicket to secure a draw in the Ashes at a sold-out Oval. In contrast, Anderson’s upcoming farewell is set to be a different kind of affair.
“I don’t think I’ll be doing anything like Broady did. I’ve hit five sixes in my international career. In 188 games, it’s not looking positive hitting a six this week. But I’d love to just be able to contribute somehow this week, whether it’s one wicket,” Anderson said.
“That’s the reason I’ve played cricket for so long, to experience those moments of winning series, winning games, in the dressing room after, sharing a beer with the other guys, knowing that everyone’s worked really hard to achieve that goal. I’d love to be able to sit down at the end of the Test match with a beer with all the lads and have them win the game,” he concluded.
Last Updated on July 8, 2024
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