Nathan Lyon Hails James Anderson as "Best Ever" Fast Bowler

Legendary Australian spinner Nathan Lyon has expressed his astonishment at the impending retirement of England pace veteran James Anderson, hailing him as the "best ever" fast bowler to grace the sport.

Ahead of his final international match on July 10 against West Indies, Anderson has sent out a warning with a devastating seven-wicket haul against Nottinghamshire in the County Championship. Lyon, speaking on the Lancashire Cricket Website, praised Anderson's class and skillset, particularly in English conditions.

"He showed his class. No disrespect to the other bowlers in this game, but you can see the class of Jimmy and the extra zip he gets off the wicket," Lyon said. "I have said this before, I am very much surprised that England have tapped him on the shoulder. He is class, he is world-class. He's probably the best to ever play the game as a fast bowler."

Lyon also shared his unusual experience of encouraging Anderson, his former international rival, as a teammate in the County Championship. "I have obviously seen it on the other side. We had a little moment when we said it feels a bit sick for me to say 'Come on Jimmy' and him saying 'nice Garry'. That was a bit different, but it is the beauty of county cricket I guess and it is pretty special to play with arguably the greatest bowler to ever play the game."

Anderson's dominance in the County Championship Division One game was evident as he dismissed six of Nottinghamshire's top seven batters for single-digit scores, reducing them to 40/6. His economy rate of 2.18 and three maiden overs showcased his authority and class.

Despite his age, Anderson remains a vital part of the England setup. England men's managing director, Rob Key, confirmed that Anderson will continue as a mentor following his retirement from international cricket.

"Jimmy will continue in our set-up, and he will help as a bit more of a mentor," Key said. "We're trying to set up an elite coach development programme, which Jimmy wants to do, but we will have a look at the end of the summer."

Anderson's final Test match will be played at The Lord's on July 10, marking the end of an illustrious career that has seen him take 700 wickets in 187 Tests.

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