In a unique interview following his retirement, England legend James Anderson provided a sneak peek inside his career.
James Anderson, perhaps the greatest speed bowler of all time, has finally retired from international cricket, bringing his remarkable career to an end. The England versus West Indies Test at Lord’s proved to be his final appearance in the England shirt, with the experienced pacer finishing his career at the top of the wicket-taking rankings for pace bowlers with a staggering 704 wickets. However, after helping England win their final game, Anderson stated that there was one moment in the final that disappointed him.
In a post-match interview with Sky Cricket, Anderson had an honest conversation with England great Nasser Hussain, under whom he made his debut two decades ago.
“Obviously, this morning was quite emotional with the two teams lined up, and the reaction from the crowd was pretty special,” Anderson told ESPN. “But sure, I’m still trying to keep them [tears] back now, but I suppose I’m just incredibly pleased to have played for the past 20 years. [It] is a tremendous effort, particularly for a quick bowler.
“I’m just glad I’ve made it this far. I consider myself fortunate to have been injury-free for the majority of my career. And yes, play for England.
Anderson was greeted warmly by the players from both sides as he went into Lord’s Cricket Ground for the final time as an England international. It was a genuinely emotional experience for him.
“Yeah, I’ve had a lot of different feelings and been so up and down. My daughters rang a bell on the first day. Walking out today, with both teams lined up again, was rather emotional. “I forgot what I was trying to do with the ball,” Anderson stated during a postgame press conference. “But, yes, it’s been great. As previously said, the crowd’s reaction was fantastic. I can’t wrap my brain around it right now.
‘Gutted’ At Not Getting The 705th Wicket
Anderson might have concluded his career with 705 wickets instead of 704, if he hadn’t lost a wicket to offer the West Indies’ Gudakesh Motie a chance. He is still sad about that missed chance.
“I’m still gutted to have dropped that catch, to be honest,” Anderson disclosed. “But, sure, it’s been a great week. I’ve been overwhelmed by the reaction of the audience, everyone surrounding the pitch, and the players, and I’m simply happy of what I’ve accomplished.”
“I’ve been fortunate to play alongside some incredible players,” Anderson added. “Some of the most accomplished cricketers in history, but also some incredibly kind guys and lifelong friends.
“And it is a really special sport. I believe no other sport fosters this type of environment or connections, and part of me is envious of these young men who will be able to experience it for the next few years. As I previously stated, we have a young squad with a lot of fantastic skills, and the advice I would give them is to enjoy every minute because it will be a great ride.
When it comes to the most memorable moments in his cricket career, the experienced bowler has liked winning in Australia and India the most.
“Winning series and winning Test matches,” Anderson said, “have been the only things that I’ve been interested in since I joined the England team—winning in Australia, winning in India, becoming the number one site in the world, and contributing to those series as well. Taking wickets is something that will be remembered for a lifetime, as is playing with some of the game’s legends. “It’s just been really special.”
“Well, I think just the feeling that we’ve got now—winning the Test match,” remarked the Australian captain. “There’s no better feeling than knowing that everyone has worked hard this week.
I know it appears that we have dominated, but we have had to work really hard for this victory while also participating in the achievements of others.
When asked what feeling he would miss the most, Anderon mentioned the aches and pains.
“Gus had an excellent debut this week, as did Jamie Smith. Incredible. Seeing the guys go out there and show off their skill, and then getting to sit in here after a win and enjoy those kinds of performances together, is a fantastic experience that I will definitely forget.
“Feeling like I do now,” Anderson remarked. “I’m feeling about 55 after bowling the overs this week. I guess I will miss the aches and pains you wake up with. But, like I said, I feel quite blessed. I’ve been able to do what I do for a long time, and I’m simply glad I’ve come this far.”
“I don’t think I’ve thought that far ahead. I’m going to spend the rest of the summer with these men. I’ll try to support the bowling group as much as I can, and we’ll see where things go from there. I haven’t looked that far ahead.”
