James Anderson, the legendary English cricketer, announced his retirement from international cricket on July 12, 2024. Known for his exceptional skills as a fast bowler, he had a memorable career spanning over two decades.
Anderson has signed off as England’s all-time leading wicket-taker in Test cricket and is widely regarded as one of the greatest fast bowlers of all time. His retirement marked the end of an era in English cricket, leaving behind a remarkable legacy and numerous records that may stand for years to come.
Anderson, 41, marked his name in cricketing history as one of England’s finest fast bowlers. Renowned for his exceptional swing bowling, Anderson holds the distinction of being the highest wicket-taker among fast bowlers in Test cricket, with over 700 wickets to his name. From his senior national team debut in 2002 to a teary farewell in 2024, his longevity in the sport was unparalleled, becoming the oldest player to top the ICC Men’s Test Bowling rankings in February 2023, and continuing to excel well into his forties, a feat rare among fast bowlers.
Beyond Test cricket, Anderson made significant contributions to England’s limited-overs teams, playing for the One-Day International (ODI) and Twenty20 International (T20I) sides. He was part of England’s victorious 2010 ICC World Twenty20 squad and remained an important figure in England’s cricketing landscape throughout his career. He also holds the record for most wickets caught by a wicketkeeper (249) in all formats.
As England’s first Test against the West Indies at the Lord’s concluded, tributes poured in for Anderson from female cricketers who had admired and sought inspiration from him, each expressing their admiration and respect for his achievements and character.
Jhulan Goswami, the legendary Indian fast bowler, tweeted, “21 years and 704 wickets, these ain’t just numbers, this is the magic you have created. Your fierce determination towards the game will forever be an inspiration for the younger generations. Happy retirement @jimmy9. You were, you are and you’ll always be a legend.”
21 years and 704 wickets, these ain’t just numbers this is the magic you have created✨ Your fierce determination towards the game will forever be an inspiration for the younger generations💯 Happy retirement @jimmy9 ❤️ You were, you are and you’ll always be a legend 💪…
— Jhulan Goswami (@JhulanG10) July 12, 2024
Jemimah Rodrigues echoed similar sentiments with her tweet, “The Great, The Legend”, summarizing the universal respect Anderson commands across the cricketing fraternity.
The Great, The Legend ❤️👏🏼 https://t.co/WNdGhJA8ng
— Jemimah Rodrigues (@JemiRodrigues) July 12, 2024
Heather Knight, England’s women’s cricket captain, took to Instagram to share a reel posted by England Cricket, expressing her gratitude, “Thanks for inspiring so many.”
Kate Cross, another England cricketer, joined in, acknowledging Anderson’s greatness, “The best to ever do it, congratulations.”
Issy Wong shared her thoughts with a playful hashtag on Instagram, “#tailendersoftheworlduniteandtakeover”, highlighting Anderson’s impact on the sports culture and fandom.
Maia Bouchier added her voice to the chorus of appreciation, posting on Instagram, “Thank you Jimmy”, alongside a reel from England Cricket.