James Anderson Set to Bid Adieu to International Cricket After the First Test Against the West Indies

End Of An Era!

James Anderson, the highest wicket-taking paceman in Test cricket, has announced that the first Test against West Indies to be played at Lord's from July 10, will be his final Test appearance.

Anderson's Retirement Note

"Hi everyone. Just a note to say that the first Test of the summer at Lord's will be my last Test," Anderson wrote in an Instagram post. "It's been an incredible 20 years representing my country, playing the game I've loved since I was a kid. I'm going to miss walking out for England so much. But I know the time is right to step aside and let others realise their dreams just like I got to, because there is no greater feeling.

"I couldn't have done it without the love and support of Daniella, Lola, Ruby and my parents. A huge thank you to them. Also, thank you to the players and coaches who have made this the best job in the world.

"I'm excited for the new challenges that lie ahead, as well as filling my days with even more golf," he added. "Thank you to everyone who has supported me over the years, it's always meant a lot, even if my face often doesn't show it."

Anderson, who made his Test debut for England in May 2003 against Zimbabwe, became the first fast bowler to reach the milestone of 700 Test wickets in the fifth Test against India in Dharamshala earlier this year. He is nine wickets away from surpassing Shane Warne as the second-highest wicket-taker in Test cricket.

Anderson has picked up 32 five-wicket hauls and three 10-wicket hauls, with a best of 7 for 42 (vs West Indies at Lord's in 2017) and 11 for 71 (vs Pakistan at Trent Bridge in 2010). He has scored 1353 runs with one half-century - 81 against India at Trent Bridge in 2014.

According to a report in The Guardian, Anderson recently had a conversation with Test head coach Brendon McCullum who flew down to England to tell the senior pacer that the team was looking to the future.