LONDON: England's James Anderson announced on Saturday that he will retire from Test cricket after the first match of this year's series against the West Indies at Lord's, ending a 21-year career that made him the most successful pace bowler of all time. I hit.
The 41-year-old has taken 700 Test wickets, second only to Sri Lankan spinner Muttiah Muralitharan (800) and Australia's Shane Warne (708) on the all-time list.
Anderson, who made his England debut at Lord's in 2003, will end his illustrious career at the same ground in the 188th Test, two weeks shy of his 42nd birthday.
Anderson said in a statement: “It's been an incredible 20 years representing my country, playing in the game I've loved since I was a child. I'll really miss playing for England.”
“But I know it's the right time to take a step back and let others realize their dreams just like I did, because there's no better feeling.”
Anderson, known as the Burnley Express, did not say whether he would continue to play county cricket for his club Lancashire, who have renamed the Pavilion End at Old Trafford the James Anderson End.
Anderson added, “I'm excited about the new challenges ahead and looking forward to filling my days with more golf.”
“Thank you to everyone who has supported me over the years. Even if it doesn't show on my face, it always means a lot.”
The first match of England's three-Test series against West Indies will be played from July 10 to 14.
England and Wales Cricket Board chairman Richard Thompson said Anderson deserved a fitting sendoff at the home of cricket.
“I don't think we'll ever see a bowler like Jimmy again. It's an honor as an England fan to watch him play and marvel at his skill with the ball,” Thompson said.
“It is amazing that he is still bowling at the top level at the age of 41 and he is a true inspiration and role model for his contemporaries and younger generations.”