James Anderson Bows Out of International Cricket with a Win

James Anderson, the legendary English pace bowler, bid farewell to international cricket in style as England thrashed West Indies by an innings and 114 runs in the first Test at Lord's.

Anderson, playing in his 188th and final Test, took a wicket on the third day, marking the end of his illustrious career. Before the start of play, an emotional Anderson walked onto the field to a guard of honor and a standing ovation from the crowd.

In his second over of the day, Anderson dismissed Joshua Da Silva for 9, claiming his 704th Test wicket. Da Silva's departure was quickly followed by that of Alzarri Joseph, who scored 8 runs. Joseph attempted to fight back with an aggressive approach but was caught by Ben Duckett, giving him his 10th wicket on his Test debut.

Shamar Joseph then managed to score only 3 runs before being clean bowled by Gus Atkinson. Joseph's dismissal left Gudakesh Motie to resist England's bowlers. Motie, who remained not out at 31, managed to produce moments of resistance, including a drive to the cover boundary that prompted a lengthy chase and a dive from Anderson.

There was a moment when Motie nearly handed Anderson his 705th Test wicket by driving the ball straight back to him, but Anderson spilled the catch. Anderson didn't get another opportunity to secure a final wicket.

Atkinson brought the game to a close when Jayden Seales, who added 8 runs, was caught by Duckett, leaving West Indies all out for 136. This concluded a comprehensive win for England inside seven sessions.

Anderson's retirement marks the end of an era for English cricket. He is England's all-time leading wicket-taker in both Tests and ODIs and has been a key figure in the team's success over the past two decades.

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