Day 3 of the first Test between England and the West Indies could mark the end of an era, as it might be the last time the cricket fraternity witnesses James Anderson in action as a professional cricketer. The legendary pacer is set to retire after the completion of this Test match. The first Test is being played at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground, a venue where Anderson has delivered some of the most mesmerizing spells in the purest format of the game over his illustrious career, which has spanned more than two decades.
On the first two days of the Test, the West Indies were dominated by the hosts. As of now, the Caribbean side is struggling at 79/6 in their second innings, still needing another 171 runs to avoid an innings defeat.
While cricket is a game full of uncertainties and miracles, the likelihood of the West Indies taking the game to Day 4 seems slim. Therefore, fans have gathered at Lord’s in large numbers to witness James Anderson’s potentially final appearance as an international cricketer.
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As the 41-year-old made his way out through the historic long room for the start of play on Day 3, fans and attendees gave him a standing ovation, applauding his efforts for the Three Lions with a warm round of applause.
In a video posted by Lord’s Cricket Ground on ‘X’ (formerly known as Twitter), James Anderson was seen waiting patiently just outside the field, as his teammates prepared to give him a guard of honour. The Burnley-born speedster was visibly emotional, fighting back tears ahead of his last outing.
Emotions for a true legend of the game 🥲#LoveLords | #ENGvWI pic.twitter.com/FMHduPBgT6
— Lord’s Cricket Ground (@HomeOfCricket) July 12, 2024
James Anderson bowled 10.4 overs in the first innings, accounting for the wicket of Jayden Seales. He conceded 26 runs and bowled three maidens. In the second innings, the veteran delivered 10 overs, conceding just 11 runs and bagging the important wickets of Kraigg Brathwaite and Alick Athanaze. However, he ended Day 3 without taking another wicket.
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Interestingly, he had a chance to add one more victim to his illustrious wickets tally but failed to take a catch. As James Anderson’s remarkable career draws to a close, the cricketing world bids farewell to one of the game’s greatest bowlers, cherishing the memories and achievements of a true legend.
