James Anderson, 41, makes history as first pacer to reach 700 test wickets, enhancing his legacy of greatness
PTC News Desk: James Anderson, at the age of 41, has etched his name in the annals of cricket history by becoming the first-ever fast bowler to reach the remarkable milestone of 700 Test wickets, joining the exclusive ranks alongside Muttiah Muralitharan and Shane Warne.
Making his Test debut back in 2003, Anderson's illustrious career reached new heights as he claimed his 700th Test wicket during the fifth Test against India at the HPCA Stadium in Dharamsala. This significant achievement solidifies his position as one of the greatest bowlers in the sport's 147-year Test history.
Anderson achieved this feat by dismissing Kuldeep Yadav on Day 3 of the match. Employing an off-cutter from around the wicket, he tempted Kuldeep into a drive, resulting in an outside edge that was safely pouched by wicketkeeper Ben Foakes.
Beginning the fifth Test with 698 wickets to his name, Anderson faced a formidable challenge from the Indian batting lineup, notably from the young talent Shubman Gill. However, the veteran seamer showcased his skill and perseverance, ultimately surpassing Gill to reach the monumental milestone of 700 Test wickets.
In a captivating display of skill, the legendary pacer managed to breach the gap between Shubman Gill's bat and pads, sending the timber flying to claim yet another wicket.
James Anderson had to wait patiently to reach the landmark 700th wicket as Shubman Gill's dismissal became a special moment etched in Anderson's illustrious record books. At 41 years of age, Anderson also earned the distinction of being the oldest bowler to join the elusive 700-wicket club, surpassing the likes of Muttiah Muralitharan and Shane Warne, who both achieved the feat before the age of 40.
The journey to the elite club began with Shane Warne on December 26, 2006, during the Boxing Day Test against England when he dismissed Andrew Strauss. Muralitharan followed suit a year later, marking the inception of the exclusive list. It took approximately 17 years for another player to join these two greats.
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1. Muttiah Muralitharan - 800
2. Shane Warne - 708
3. James Anderson - 700*
Despite missing the first Test against India in the ongoing series, Anderson's return to the playing XI for the second Test proved invaluable for England. With ten wickets under his belt thus far in the series, the veteran pacer has consistently troubled the Indian batsmen with his masterful swing deliveries.
Meanwhile, in the final Test, India strengthened their position over England, amassing a commanding lead of 259 runs as they aim to secure a 4-1 series victory. Following Kuldeep Yadav's dismissal, his overnight batting partner Jasprit Bumrah fell shortly after, becoming Shoaib Bashir's fifth victim of the innings (5/173). India was eventually bowled out for 477 in response to England's 218.
With the series already clinched, the Dharamsala Test holds significant importance as it contributes to the World Test Championship standings. A victory for India will further solidify their position in the points table.
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(Inputs from agencies)
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