21 years, 188 Tests, 704 wickets, these are not just figures but a historical tale of a legendary man. James Anderson finally retired and called off to a glorious career. His farewell Test match that was played between England and West Indies at the Lord's Cricket Ground in London. Although the hosts won the match by an inning and 114 runs but Anderson missed the opportunity to end his career by taking a wicket but he dropped it.
James Anderson on his dropped catch
During Ashes 2023, when Stuart Broad retired, he ended his career by taking the final wicket of his last match. James Anderson got a similar opportunity but the evergreen pacer dropped the chance from his hand. In the 44th over of the second innings, Gudakesh Motie played a shot right towards Anderson who tried to catch the ball from one hand but he dropped that caught and bowled opportunity. The whole crowd was shocked and stunned, even Jimmy himself was down on his knees in a state of disbelief. He later on revealed to be feeling gutted for dropping that catch.
“I'm still gutted I dropped that catch! It's been an amazing week. I've been overwhelmed by the reaction... just proud of what I achieved. This morning was quite emotional with the two teams lined up and the reaction from the crowd was pretty special... playing for 20-odd years is an incredible effort, especially for a fast bowler, so I'm just happy I've made it this far. Playing for England is the best job in the world. I've been privileged to do it for a long time,” said James Anderson in the post-match presentation.
“We talk a lot in the dressing room about creating memories. It's not just for us, it's for our families as well... they've been incredible support back home and allowed me to play as long as I have. Grateful for what they've done for me, and grateful they were here. I've been lucky to play with some of the most talented cricketers that have ever played the game, but more importantly, some really good blokes and some friends I've made for life... Part of me is a little bit jealous that these lads get to experience it for the next few years,” he added.
Anderson gets the winning farewell
Anderson has engraved his name in the history books with golden letters as one of the greatest to grace the game of cricket. A legend with a legendary career. A phenom who has inspired millions and will continue to inspire many more in the coming days. It will be impossible to replicate what this great has done and contributed to this cricketing world.
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