James Anderson, the legendary England pacer, achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first fast bowler to claim 700 Test wickets. This remarkable feat was accomplished during the fifth and final Test against India in Dharamshala, where Anderson dismissed Kuldeep Yadav to reach the milestone.
At 41 years old, Anderson’s achievement is a testament to his exceptional skill, longevity, and dedication to the game. He entered the match just two wickets shy of the 700-mark and achieved the milestone in his 187th Test match.
Anderson made his debut for England in a One-Day International against Zimbabwe in 2002 and soon established himself as a force to be reckoned with in Test cricket. Known for his smooth action and mastery of swing bowling, both traditional and reverse, Anderson has been a key figure in England’s bowling attack for over two decades.
Sachin Tendulkar said
Tributes and congratulatory messages poured in from the cricketing fraternity, with batting legend Sachin Tendulkar leading the way. Tendulkar, who had many memorable battles against Anderson, praised the Englishman’s control over the ball and described his achievement as “simply magnificent.”
“The first time I saw Anderson play was in Australia in 2002, and his control over the ball looked special.”
He further said that Nasser Hussain had spotted Anderson as a great talent way before.
“Nasser Hussain spoke very highly of him back then and today, I am sure, he would say, “Maine bola tha” — that he had called it so early”, he added.
“700 test wickets is a stellar achievement. A fast bowler playing for 22 years and performing so consistently to be able to take 700 wickets would have sounded like fiction until Anderson actually made it happen. Simply magnificent!,” he concluded.
Other notable figures, including India’s legendary spinner Anil Kumble, who finished his career with 619 Test wickets, also hailed Anderson’s achievement. Kumble lauded Anderson’s fitness, passion for the game, and skill, calling his feat a “monumental effort.”
England Cricket’s official handle also lauded Anderson, describing him as “utter greatness” and highlighting his unrivaled skill, longevity, and dedication to the game.
Anderson’s achievement adds another chapter to his illustrious career and solidifies his place as one of the greatest fast bowlers in the history of the game. His remarkable feat will be remembered and celebrated by cricket fans around the world for years to come.
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