After leaving international cricket, James Anderson will be remembered as one of the greatest fast bowlers in history. Anderson, who holds the record for the most Test wickets among pacers, will mark the milestone of his international career with the Lord’s Test against West Indies in July. It was 21 years ago when Anderson made his debut at Lord’s, in what was then considered the epitome of cricket.
Naturally, all views will be on Anderson during this Test, distinct from his retirement. There will be much discussion. Everyone wants to celebrate Anderson’s achievement. For this, West Indies has also thrown down the gauntlet to the hosts.
This three-match Test series will run from July 10 to July 30, beginning with the first Test at Lord’s. The Caribbean players aim to win their first ‘Away’ series against England since 1988.
In recent years, England will face a formidable pace attack from West Indies during their tour. Despite not being in top form at the start of the county season, Anderson displayed remarkable performance in the final match at Warwickshire, taking 8 wickets.
His bowling partners, the experienced Jadeja and Holder, have also regained form for their respective county teams. Alongside them are Shammar Joseph and Alzarri Joseph.
In the belief of victory, it is possible for England to win a series against their opponents within 36 years. Responding to reporters at Oval, the Caribbean pacers stated, ‘The team is talented and skilled. We haven’t performed well in England recently. So, our focus should be on ourselves—not what he (Anderson) is doing. Whatever Anderson achieves, he deserves it. Our task is to work hard and achieve results. And that is winning the series against England.’
Since 2012, Roach and Anderson have played against each other in 12 Tests. Yesterday, 41-year-old Anderson announced, he will mark the milestone of his international career with the Lord’s Test against West Indies. Roach praised Anderson, saying, ‘He’s a great fast bowler. Probably the best. It’ll be tough to see him go, but we all know we can’t play forever. He has done exceptionally well for England, and whatever he gets, he deserves.’
Roach then chuckled and said, ‘It will be against us (Anderson’s retirement) in the first Test… hopefully, we can celebrate. He deserves respect. He has given me great advice. He will be remembered as one of the all-time greats. Best wishes to him after that (Lord’s Test).’
Roach, who will turn 31 next month, told the West Indies pilgrims, ‘We are confident as a team. The series against England is also the biggest… We want to play a good game. It’s been a long time since we won a Test series in England, so we should take the field with confidence, so that we can win.
