Cricket

James Anderson, the legendary English fast bowler, is set to retire from international cricket after the fifth Test against India at Lord's. The 40-year-old has been a mainstay of the England team for over two decades, taking a record 700 Test wickets.Anderson's career has been marked by his exceptional skill and longevity. He has the ability to swing the ball both ways at high speeds, making him a formidable threat to batsmen. He has also been a master of reverse swing, a technique that allows him to make the ball swing in the opposite direction of its natural swing.Anderson's most memorable moments include dismissing Michael Clarke with a perfect yorker at Lord's in 2015, and VVS Laxman with a devastating inswinger at The Oval in 2011. He also played a key role in England's famous victory over India at Eden Gardens in 2012, taking five wickets in the first innings.Despite his age, Anderson has remained in excellent physical condition and has continued to perform at the highest level. However, the England management has decided that it is time for him to retire, in order to give younger bowlers a chance to establish themselves.Anderson has expressed his disappointment at being forced to retire, but he understands the decision. He is now looking forward to mentoring the next generation of England bowlers and helping them to achieve success.Anderson's retirement marks the end of an era for English cricket. He has been one of the greatest fast bowlers of all time, and his legacy will live on for many years to come.

James Anderson, England's legendary fast bowler, is set to bid farewell to international cricket in the first Test against the West Indies at Lord's, starting on Wednesday. The match will mark Anderson's 188th and final Test, after which he will transition into England's fast-bowling mentor.Anderson's retirement comes after a distinguished 21-year Test career, during which he has taken 700 wickets, making him the first seamer in history to reach this milestone. Despite being 42 years old, Anderson remains one of the most potent bowlers in the world, as evidenced by his impressive performance in India earlier this year, where he took 10 wickets at an average of 33.50.However, England's managing director Rob Key, coach Brendon McCullum, and captain Ben Stokes decided to pension off Anderson, believing that it was time for a new generation of fast bowlers to take over. Anderson was informed of their decision in April, a month after his return from India.Despite the disappointment of being forced into retirement, Anderson has accepted the decision with grace. He understands the need for England to plan for the future, especially with the 2025-26 Ashes in Australia on the horizon.Anderson warmed up for his final Test with a brilliant performance for Lancashire in the English County Championship last week, taking 7-35. He will be hoping to end his Test career on a high note at Lord's, where he made his Test debut in 2003 against Zimbabwe.The first Test against the West Indies will also see the debuts of Surrey seamer Gus Atkinson and wicketkeeper Jamie Smith. Both players have represented England in white-ball cricket, with Atkinson playing in the ODI World Cup last year. Smith replaces Jonny Bairstow, who has been dropped after 100 Tests.Spinner Jack Leach has also made way for Shoaib Bashir to make his home Test debut after taking 17 wickets in India. Chris Woakes returns for his first Test since he was the player of the series in the Ashes last summer.The West Indies, meanwhile, will be looking to bounce back from their 10-wicket thrashing in Adelaide in their last Test against Australia. They have recalled all-rounder Jason Holder and fast bowler Jayden Seales, while opening batter Mikyle Louis will become the first man from St. Kitts and Nevis to play a Test.In the absence of the injured Kemar Roach, Alzarri Joseph will lead the pace attack with Seales and Shamar Joseph, who played a pivotal role in the West Indies' extraordinary eight-run victory over Australia in Brisbane in January.Anderson, who has been described as "perfect" as a Test player by Shamar Joseph, is determined to make his last Test a memorable one. However, he is also aware of the emotions that will be swirling around him during the match."I'm sure the emotions during the week will change, but right now that's what I’m trying to focus on to stop myself crying," Anderson said.

Andrew Strauss, former England captain and current director of men's cricket at the ECB, has strongly advocated for James Anderson to be knighted as the legendary pacer prepares for his final Test appearance at Lord's. With 700 career dismissals at an impressive average of 26.52, Anderson stands as the most prolific pace bowler in Test cricket history and England's most capped cricketer.Strauss, who received a knighthood in 2019 for his contributions to charity, sport, and cricket, believes Anderson's exceptional achievements warrant the honor. Having captained Anderson for 42 Tests and worked closely with him as the ECB's director of men's cricket, Strauss has witnessed firsthand Anderson's brilliance and longevity.Despite retiring from Test cricket 12 years ago, Strauss recognizes the remarkable endurance of Anderson, who made his debut a year after him in 2004. "Any fast bowler that plays 188 Test matches deserves a knighthood," Strauss asserted.Strauss had previously attempted to phase out Anderson and Stuart Broad, who retired last summer. However, after a disastrous Ashes campaign in 2021-22, Strauss, then serving as interim director of cricket, dropped the pair for a tour of the West Indies.Under the leadership of Ben Stokes, Anderson and Broad were reinstated for the home summer. However, with the next Ashes series approaching, Strauss believes it is time to transition to a younger generation of bowlers."Jimmy's still bowling well, but there's a ticking clock there for the next Ashes," Strauss said. "I think 18 games until the next Ashes. And at some stage, you've got to juggle the needs for the future with the needs for the present."Strauss emphasized that winning in Australia requires a high-quality and diverse bowling attack, and he believes the next Ashes is too far away for Anderson. "People have written him off many times, but that does feel too far down the road," he said.While Anderson's Test career may be coming to an end, Strauss believes it is fitting that he receives a farewell at Lord's, where he has enjoyed many memorable moments. The match will also serve as an opportunity to raise funds and awareness for the Ruth Strauss Foundation, which supports families facing the death of a parent from cancer.

Ben Stokes, England's Test captain, is eager to resume his all-rounder role as the team embarks on its summer campaign against West Indies at Lord's. The first Test marks a new era for England, with James Anderson retiring after a remarkable 188-cap career.Stokes' return to full fitness after a knee injury that hindered his bowling ability over the past two years will ease the transition from Anderson's departure. His successful surgery in November and pain-free performance during the India tour earlier this year have paved the way for his recovery.During the County Championship matches, Stokes bowled ahead of schedule and took 18 wickets in 89.1 overs. He is now as fit as he has been in the last five years and relishes the prospect of regaining his balance as a batsman and bowler."I can now say that I can play the full role I had been doing for the first eight to 10 years," Stokes said. "The last two years have been tough with the knee problems, but I've done everything right to get myself to where I am now."Stokes' return to all-rounder status coincides with a new perspective as captain. He and Test coach Brendon McCullum have adopted a more forward-thinking approach, focusing on the upcoming Ashes tour of Australia. This shift prompted Anderson's retirement, as he will be 43 by the 2025/26 winter.Despite a 4-1 defeat in India, Stokes' record as captain remains strong with 14 wins from 23 Tests. However, the past four months have been marked by introspection and a desire to evolve the team."We've been a team focused on the here and now," Stokes said. "I want to implement stuff to push this team as far as they can go, not only as a team collective but also as individuals."The selections of wicketkeeper Jamie Smith and spinner Shoaib Bashir reflect England's long-term planning. Smith, despite being Surrey's second-choice keeper, has impressed with his batting and fits into the team's strategy at No. 7. Bashir, who moved on loan to Worcestershire, has shown promise in India and offers variety with his height and individual traits.Stokes acknowledges that these decisions, particularly Anderson's retirement, may raise questions. However, he believes it is his duty as captain to make tough calls that will ultimately benefit the team."There's always going to be decisions that are hard ones to make," Stokes said. "But that's a responsibility that you take on as captain or as a leader."

West Indies captain Kraigg Brathwaite is drawing inspiration from his team's stunning victory over Australia in Brisbane as they prepare for the first Test against England at Lord's. Despite their inexperience, Brathwaite believes his team can overcome the odds once again.In January, West Indies defied all expectations by defeating Australia in Brisbane, a venue where the hosts had lost only once in 34 Tests. Key contributions from Kavem Hodge, Joshua da Silva, Kevin Sinclair, Alick Athanaze, and Kirk McKenzie, along with Shamar Joseph's match-winning bowling performance, secured the historic eight-run win.Now, West Indies face another tough challenge in England, where they haven't won a series since 1988. Only three players in their squad - Brathwaite, Jason Holder, and Alzarri Joseph - have prior experience at Lord's. However, Brathwaite is confident that his team can replicate their Brisbane success."It was a big positive for us to get a win, because it shows that we could we could get the job done," Brathwaite said. "We could take a lot of stuff from that game as batsmen, because we had some important partnerships. Then the bowlers were outstanding."Brathwaite confirmed his XI on the eve of the Test, with Mikyle Louis set to make history as the first player from St Kitts to represent West Indies. The middle-order is also relatively inexperienced, but Brathwaite believes they are ready for the challenge."I think they're young and exciting," he said. "They have a lot of talent and we are fully 100% behind them."Brathwaite's experience will be crucial, especially against England's aggressive "Bazball" approach. However, he insists that he will not be rushed into changing his style."My general style is taking my time, and that's me," he said. "All the batters must bat their game, and back their plan. That's what we will do, we focus on ourselves. Making sure we fight is very important."Brathwaite also acknowledged the skills of James Anderson, who will be playing his final Test at Lord's."Obviously he's a legend of the game, he's very consistent," Brathwaite said. "Facing him in England is a good challenge, you've really got to be on it."Brathwaite's advice to his teammates is to trust their plans and enjoy the experience."Don't just expect to play for West Indies, expect to be the first to score 30 hundreds," he said. "You got to think big, you know. Don't think too small."

James Anderson, the legendary English fast bowler, is set to bid farewell to international cricket after the first Test against the West Indies at Lord's, commencing on Wednesday. The 42-year-old has enjoyed a remarkable career spanning over two decades, amassing an unparalleled 700 Test wickets.Anderson's longevity and consistency have been exceptional. He is the only fast bowler to have taken more than 700 Test wickets, and his 188 Test appearances are second only to Sachin Tendulkar's 200. Despite his age, Anderson remains a potent force, as evidenced by his recent 7-35 for Lancashire.Reflecting on his impending retirement, Anderson expressed pride in his achievements. "Playing my 188th Test at just short of 42 years old, makes me the most proud," he said. "I'm still pushing myself to be the best I possibly can."Anderson's decision to retire from international cricket is part of England's long-term planning for the 2025/26 Ashes series against Australia. While he remains uncertain about his future in first-class cricket, he has not ruled out continuing to represent Lancashire.Anderson's impact on cricket has been profound. His mastery of swing bowling has made him one of the most feared bowlers in the world. His legacy will be celebrated for generations to come, regardless of whether he chooses to continue playing for Lancashire or not.

Nottinghamshire and Lancashire played out a thrilling draw in their Vitality County Championship match at Southport, with Joe Clarke's fourth century of the season proving crucial for the visitors.Clarke's unbeaten 115, alongside Lyndon James' 43 not out, steered Nottinghamshire to 270 for four in their second innings, ensuring they drew the match by 143 runs. The result sees both teams move further away from the Division One relegation zone.Lancashire's James Anderson, who had taken seven wickets in Nottinghamshire's first innings, was unable to replicate his heroics on the final day. He finished with figures of one for 25 from eleven overs, with his only wicket coming when Will Young edged a catch to Matthew Hurst.Clarke and Jack Haynes steadied the ship for Nottinghamshire after Young's dismissal, with Haynes hitting a six off Tom Bailey. However, Haynes was caught behind off Chris Green, giving the Australian off-spinner his maiden first-class wicket for Lancashire on his Championship debut.Clarke continued to bat with fluency, reaching his fifty in 107 balls and his century off 185 balls. He and James put on an unbroken 136 for the fifth wicket, taking Nottinghamshire into the lead and ultimately securing the draw.The match also featured a rare sight, with Nathan Lyon and Anderson bowling in tandem for Lancashire. The combination has taken 1230 Test wickets, the most ever by one first-class team.

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.

James Anderson, England's legendary fast bowler, made a resounding return to the County Championship, claiming a remarkable seven-wicket haul in his first appearance of the summer. Lancashire seized control against Nottinghamshire at Southport, enforcing the follow-on after dismissing their opponents for a paltry 126 in reply to their first innings total of 353 for nine declared.Anderson's devastating spell of 7 for 35 included an opening burst of 6 for 19 in ten overs, dismantling Nottinghamshire's top and middle order. His pinpoint accuracy and relentless line and length proved too much for the Notts batters, who were skittled out in just 36.3 overs.Nottinghamshire's second innings fared little better, with Nathan Lyon claiming his 800th first-class wicket to dismiss Ben Slater for 17. Lyon also broke a determined partnership between Haseeb Hameed and Will Young, having the Notts captain caught behind for 41.Lancashire's dominance was further underlined by Tom Bailey's two wickets in two balls, removing Calvin Harrison and Olly Stone. Despite a spirited 42-run partnership between Slater and Dane Paterson, the last pair was separated by a direct hit from Lyon, leaving Slater stranded on 64 not out.With Lancashire enforcing the follow-on, Nottinghamshire faced an uphill battle to avoid an innings defeat. Young and Joe Clarke showed resilience, negotiating their way through to the close with 11 runs each. However, the visitors will need to display similar determination on the final day to prevent a comprehensive loss.Anderson's performance was a timely reminder of his enduring class ahead of his farewell Test at Lord's next week. His ability to consistently hit the perfect line and length, even after a prolonged absence from competitive cricket, is a testament to his exceptional skill and unwavering dedication.