(AFP Photo)
James Anderson, a stalwart of Test cricket renowned for his mastery with the ball, is set to retire from international cricket after an illustrious career that began in December 2002. Over the years, Anderson has etched his name in cricketing history as the most prolific fast bowler ever, amassing a staggering tally of 990 wickets across formats, setting new benchmarks along the way.
Anderson’s ability to swing the ball and consistently trouble batsmen has become the stuff of cricketing legend. His skill in setting up opponents and claiming crucial wickets has been instrumental in numerous victories for England.
Reflecting on his career, Anderson singled out Sachin Tendulkar as the most formidable opponent he has faced. “The best batter I would have to say is Sachin Tendulkar,” Anderson revealed in an interview with Sky Sports. Throughout his career, Anderson dismissed Tendulkar a total of 12 times—9 times in Test matches and 3 times in ODIs.
Despite his success against Tendulkar, Anderson admitted there was no specific gameplan to tackle the legendary batsman. Instead, his focus was simply on avoiding bowling loose deliveries and maintaining a relentless line and length.
As James Anderson bids farewell to international cricket, he leaves behind a legacy that transcends statistics, embodying the essence of skill, dedication, and sportsmanship in the game of cricket.
“I don’t remember having a specific game plan against Sachin Tendulkar. Once he came on, I would just think that I cannot bowl a bad ball here, he was that kind of player,” Anderson said.
“He was a key for India as well. If you get him out in India, the whole atmosphere, in the ground changes. He was such a big wicket,” Anderson he added.
Against England in Test cricket, Sachin Tendulkar amassed a formidable record, amassing 2535 runs in 32 matches at an impressive average of 51.73. His dominance included seven centuries and 13 half-centuries, showcasing his prowess against the English bowling attack.
James Anderson, reflecting on his strategy against Tendulkar, revealed that he often targeted the legendary batsman early in his innings, aiming to trap him LBW (Leg Before Wicket). This tactic underscored Anderson’s approach to challenge one of the game’s greatest batsmen with his skillful swing and seam bowling.
“You just try on bowling your best ball, top of off-stump, the whole time and hope he miss a straight one. In England, he might nick the odd one, but generally, I’d try and get him out LBW early. I had some success against him, but he had success against me as well. He got runs against us quite a lot,” Anderson said.
Ahead of his final Test match at Lord’s, the iconic venue of cricketing history, James Anderson, at 41 years old, was visibly moved as his family rang the historic bell. Despite the emotional moment, Anderson maintained his focus on the field, expressing his determination to perform without letting emotions overwhelm him, emphasizing his commitment to the game over sentimental tears.
