England’s legendary pacer, James Anderson will be retiring from playing international cricket after England's first Test against West Indies at Lords. Having picked up over 700 wickets in his Test career, Anderson will be going down into the history books as one of the greatest fast bowlers ever to grace the game, if not the greatest.
Anderson led the English team ahead of their game against the West Indies to a massive ovation from the home crowd.
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The 41-year-old picked up his 701st wicket in the first innings of the game against West Indies on Day 1. Although the game serves as a farewell to Anderson’s career, debutant Gus Atkinson managed to steal the spotlight from the veteran with seven wickets to his name.
Ahead of Day 1 at Lords, Anderson was interviewed by Sky Sports. Anderson was asked about the best bowler and batter that he faced during his long career.
READ MORE: ENG vs WI 1st Test: Atkinson's 7-fer on debut outshines Anderson's farewell
Anderson names Sachin Tendulkar as the toughest batter he faced
When asked to name the toughest bowler he faced, Anderson was caught up in two minds stating he reckoned both Australia's Glenn McGrath and South Africa’s fiery Dale Steyn. But when asked about the toughest batter Anderson didn’t hesitate a bit before taking the name of arguably the best batsman the world has ever seen, Sachin Ramesh Tendulkar.
Although Anderson has dismissed the little master 12 times in his career he recognized the greatness of the now retired batter.
Legendary James Anderson in his latest interview to Sky Sports when asked who is the best bowler & batsman you've faced?
— Vishwamitra (@Vishwamitra24) July 10, 2024
"Best bowlers are McGrath & Steyn & the Best Batter is Sachin Tendulkar."
Although he dismissed Sachin 12 times in international cricket, still knows the 🐐. pic.twitter.com/wYjZKFG3X5
James Anderson’s career statistics
Anderson boasts mind-boggling stats as a bowler, especially in Tests. Overall, the legendary pacer has picked up close to 1000 international wickets.
| Format | Matches | Innings | Wickets | Average | Economy | BF |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tests | 188 | 349 | 701 | 26.52 | 2.79 | 7/42 |
| ODIs | 194 | 191 | 269 | 29.22 | 4.92 | 5/23 |
| T20Is | 19 | 19 | 18 | 30.66 | 7.84 | 3/23 |
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