Batting legend Sachin Tendulkar shared a heartfelt farewell message for retiring England fast bowler James Anderson on Friday, honoring the pacer's remarkable Test career that spanned over two decades. He praised Anderson for inspiring countless players with his exceptional skills. Anderson announced his retirement from international cricket after England secured a commanding innings and 114-run victory over the West Indies in the first Test at Lord's, taking a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.
During the match, Anderson claimed four wickets across both innings, while debutant Gus Atkinson made a significant impact with 12 wickets, dismantling the West Indies' batting order.
At 41 years old, Anderson concluded his red-ball career with an impressive tally of 704 wickets from 188 matches for England, making him the highest wicket-taker among fast bowlers and the third overall in Test history, behind Muttiah Muralidaran (800) and Shane Warne (708).
In his tribute, Tendulkar wrote on X, formerly Twitter: "Hey, Jimmy! You've bowled the fans over with that incredible 22-year spell. Here's a little wish as you bid goodbye. It has been a joy to watch you bowl -- with that action, speed, accuracy, swing, and fitness. You've inspired generations with your game," Tendulkar wrote on X, formerly Twitter.
He added, “Wish you a wonderful life ahead with good health and happiness as you put those new shoes on for the most important spell of your life -- the time with family.”
Former England captain Michael Vaughan also extended his congratulations to Anderson for his illustrious Test career, describing him as a "magician in action" on the field. He expressed his sentiments on X, saying, “That’s been a special 3 days at Lords...Sad to say goodbye to the @jimmy9 but it’s been a pleasure to watch a magician in action for 21 yrs...I don’t think we will see another bowler quite like him...”
Indian wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant referred to Anderson as an "absolute GOAT" and wished him the best for his future endeavors.
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