Former South African fast bowler Dale Steyn expressed heartfelt admiration and gratitude towards veteran England pace bowler James Anderson after his retirement from international cricket. Steyn praised Anderson for his enduring impact on the game of cricket, describing him as an incredible source of inspiration.
Meanwhile, England dominated the first Test against West Indies at Lord’s Cricket Ground, achieving an innings and 114 runs victory on Friday, July 12. Ben Stokes led the team to a 1-0 lead in the ongoing three-match series at home. This match marked the conclusion of James Anderson’s illustrious international career.
In his final Test, the 41-year-old Anderson bowled impressively, claiming figures of 1/26 and 3/32. His retirement leaves him with 704 wickets from 188 Test matches, boasting an average of 26.46. Anderson ranks as the third-highest wicket-taker in Test cricket history, behind Muttiah Muralitharan (800 wickets) and Shane Warne (708 wickets).
You Have Been Fantastic – Dale Steyn
Following his retirement, James Anderson received well-wishes from both batters and bowlers. Dale Steyn, who attended Anderson’s final match, praised his remarkable career. Steyn noted he didn’t want to miss the chance to see Anderson bowl one last time.
“Tough to sum up a man’s entire career in a few sentences. Bud, you have been fantastic. Thank you so much for all these years of incredible inspiration and dramatic duels we’ve had. I was there to watch today. Some things one just shouldn’t miss. Congratulations @jimmy9,” Steyn wrote on X (formerly known as Twitter).
James Anderson had no plans to retire, but team management asked him to hang his boots as England started preparation for the Ashes 2025-26 series in Australia. He will stay with the England team for the rest of the summer. The recently retired cricketer is expected to be part of Lancashire in county cricket.
An Immortal Record – Virender Sehwag
Former Indian opener Virender Sehwag praised James Anderson and congratulated the pace bowler on his remarkable career. Sehwag highlighted Anderson’s record of 704 Test wickets, noting that it is unlikely to be surpassed by any fast bowler.
“What a great career, Jimmy. An immortal record, don’t see any fast bowler surpassing 704 test wickets, don’t see any fast bower playing anywhere close to 188 Test matches. The longevity speaks volumes of the character, resilience and spirit. Congratulations on a great career. #JamesAnderson,” Sehwag posted on ‘X’.
England captain Ben Stokes acknowledged Anderson’s continued top form but confirmed the decision to retire him ahead of the upcoming Ashes series in Australia. Rob Key, England’s managing director, announced that Anderson will continue to serve as a bowling mentor for the remainder of the English summer.
