James Anderson retired after an innings and 114 runs win over West Indies in the first Test of the series at Lord’s. The legendary pace bowler picked up three wickets in the second innings and he was on the verge of another one but he failed to grab that. Soon after that, debutant Gus Atkinson sent Jayden Seales to the hut, which ended Anderson’s international career as well.

As per England captain Ben Stokes, Atkinson also apologised to James Anderson after the dismissal as the latter was trying hard to pick up a wicket and retired from international cricket. However, Stokes also added that the veteran was laughing and gave credit to Atkinson and was happy to put over a young cricketer in his final farewell match as well.

“Gus took that last wicket and he actually apologised to Jimmy and Jimmy just laughed at him and just went ‘no, mate’. You know someone who deserved their fairytale ending like Broady (Stuart Broad) got, to put a young teammate first, I think that says a lot about Jimmy Anderson the person,” Ben Stokes said while talking to BBC Cricket.

However, Atkinson meanwhile had a stunning debut with the ball. The youngster picked up 12 wickets and was adjudged Player of the Match. Meanwhile, James Anderson also confirmed that he will be with the England team for the rest of the summer as well. ECB Director of Cricket Rob Key offered him the role of a mentor but he is yet to sign the papers. He still hasn’t decided on the future as well.

“I have not really thought that far ahead. I’m gonna stick around for the rest of the summer with these guys, try and help the bowling group out as much as I can and we will see where life takes us after that. I have not looked that far ahead,” Anderson shared.