James Anderson, England’s leading wicket-taker in Tests has announced that he will play his final Test for the national side when they take on West Indies in a three-match series in July.
The 41-year-old veteran is the third-highest wicket-taker in the sport’s longest format after reaching 700 Test wickets in the Dharamsala Test against India. He took to social media to announce his decision to call time on his career.
He started off the post by saying, “It’s been an incredible 20 years representing my country, playing the game I’ve loved since I was a kid. I’m going to miss walking out for England so much. But I know the time is right to step aside and let others realise their dreams just like I got to because there is no greater feeling”.
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Anderson has come a long way. Having made his debut at Lords back in 2003 and now finds himself considered the best red-ball pacer in history with his massive tally of wickets.
In his post, he went on to thank his family and coaches for allowing him to succeed at the highest level. He said,” I couldn’t have done it without the love and support of Daniella, Lola, Ruby and my parents. A huge thank you to them. Also, thank you to the players and coaches who have made this the best job in the world”.
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“Thank you to everyone who has supported me over the years, it’s always meant a lot, even if my face often doesn’t show it. See you at the Test,” he wrote.
As for how he plans to spend his time away from the cricket field, “I’m excited for the new challenges that lie ahead, as well as filling my days with even more golf,” Anderson revealed.
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In the recently concluded Test against India, Anderson was not used as much considering the subcontinent conditions. But his performances have declined if you look back at the Ashes where Anderson despite playing in home conditions was hardly effective.
Earlier it was reported that Anderson had a chat with the England Test coach, Brendon McCullum and it was suggested that the former Kiwi International was looking to build towards the future which might have pushed Anderson to call time on his career.
England host West Indies in a three-match ICC World Test Championship series in July, starting with the first Test at Lord’s.
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