Legendary England fast bowler Jimmy Anderson will retire from Test match cricket this summer.
The 41-year-old announced on social media that this July’s first Test against the West Indies at Lord’s would be his 188th and last.
“It’s been an incredible 20 years representing my country, playing the game I’ve loved since I was a kid,” Anderson wrote in a statement.
“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.”
Anderson made his debut for England in an ODI against Australia at the MCG in 2002 aged 20.
His first Test came the following year, at Lord’s, when he took a five-for against Zimbabwe.
He went on to take 700 Test scalps, the third most of any player in history and the most by a seam bowler.
Only spinners Muttiah Muralitharan of Sri Lanka and Australia’s Shane Warne have taken more wickets in Tests.
Anderson’s career average of 26.52 blows out dramatically against Australia though, taking 117 wickets at 35.97 in 39 matches against the Ashes rivals.
He has played under eight different England Test captains.
Sports content to make you think… or allow you not to. A newsletter delivered each Saturday.
Posted