[Watch] James Anderson's final peach to Joshua Da Silva to end his magical career on 704 wickets
James Anderson’s final wicket in Test cricket came in the form of Joshua Da Silva on the third day of the game between England and the West Indies at Lord’s on July 12.
The England pacer ended his career on a high by picking up four wickets in the game. England were all over the West Indies throughout the Test, winning by an innings and 114 runs.
In his 38th over of the West Indies' second innings, Anderson took his last wicket. The England pacer bowled a brilliant delivery outside off, which shaped away after pitching. Joshua had no clue about the late movement and only managed a thick outside edge that went straight into the keeper's hand.
Here's the video of the dismissal:
In 188 Test matches, James Anderson bagged 704 wickets at an average of 26.4. Throughout his career, Anderson took three 10-wicket hauls and 32 fifers and is also the third-highest wicket-taker in the longest format of the game.
Meanwhile, Kraigg Braithwaite’s side never looked in the game. Not a single West Indian batter was able to reach the fifty-run mark, indicating their below-par performance with the bat. Debutant Gus Atkinson was brilliant for England; he took 12 wickets and won the Player of the Match award.
“It has been an amazing 20 years”: James Anderson reflects on his career after the final game
The Test match that lasted about two days and one session had his hype all around James Anderson. The veteran pacer showed his class in his last game as well and was overwhelmed with the reception he got.
With their crushing win over the West Indies, the English team gave him an incredible send-off. At the post-match presentation, Anderson expressed his honor of having represented England for so long and said he always strived to win games for his country. He said:
"It's been an amazing 20 years. Overwhelming to see the crowd's reaction. It has been pretty special. Every time I wear this shirt I tried to win games for England."
"Emotions have been up and down. Seeing my girls ring the bell on Day 1. It has been an amazing 20 years. You can't have a long career without the support network behind you. It's the family's journey as well as it is ours," he continued.
The second Test match between England and the West Indies will start on July 18, 2024.