Published: Apr 11, 2025, 09:46 PM (IST)
Edited: Apr 11, 2025, 09:46 PM (IST)
James Anderson is set to be knighted for his illustrious 21-year career with England, as he features in former UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s resignation honours list.
Jamesh Anderson, 42 year old retired from international cricket last year after a remarkable career, that saw him claim a national record of taking 704 test wickets in 188 match, the most by any pacer and second only to India’s Sachin Tendulkar in total Test appearances.
He played his final test match at Lord’s against the West Indies in July 2024, bringing his journey full circle as he also made his debut at the same venue against Zimbabwe in 2003 at the age of 20.
Although he hasn’t played white-ball cricket for England since 2015, Anderson still holds the record as the country’s leading wicket-taker in ODIs with 269 wickets at an average of 29.22. He also took 18 wickets in T20Is, bringing his total to 991 international wickets,just nine short of the 1,000 mark.
Reacting to the news, Richard Thompson, the ECB chair said: “Congratulations Sir Jimmy Anderson. This is a really well-deserved honour for an England legend who has given so much to our sport”
“Jimmy’s career has been marked by extraordinary achievements, not least in winning the Ashes four times and becoming England’s all-time leading wicket-taker. His skill, determination, and sportsmanship have inspired millions of cricketers and fans alike, in England and around the world.” Richard said
“This is fitting recognition for a true world-great who has given so much to the game on and off the field.” Richard added
Anderson is the notable inclusion on a resignation honours list that features five other knighthoods. Four of these are to Sunak’s former cabinet colleagues, James Cleverley, Jeremy Hunt, Grant Shapps and Mel Stride, while the fifth has been handed to the film-maker Matthew Vaughn
