In the 1st Test held in North Sound James Anderson made history in the first Test against West Indies in Antigua by becoming England's highest wicket-taker in Test cricket
James Anderson is a name revered by cricket fans worldwide. He is celebrated for his pace bowling prowess and numerous record-breaking achievements in the sport, both for his country and on a global scale. Notably, he stands among the elite few bowlers who have surpassed the milestone of 700 wickets, a feat that distinguishes him as one of the greatest pace bowlers in cricket history.
During the 2015 England tour of the West Indies, Anderson etched his name in cricketing history by surpassing Ian Botham's record of 383 wickets to become England's leading Test wicket-taker. Today, nine years after this historic moment, let us reflect on the day Anderson set this remarkable record, solidifying his status as a cricketing icon.
In the aftermath of James Anderson breaking Ian Botham's record, the two cricketing legends engaged in a conversation filled with laughter and camaraderie
In the 1st Test held in North Sound, Anderson made history in the first Test against West Indies in Antigua by becoming England's highest wicket-taker in Test cricket. The fast bowler surpassed Ian Botham's tally of 383 wickets when he dismissed Denesh Ramdin, caught by Alastair Cook at first slip, securing his 384th victim on the final day. Ramdin, the captain, caught by Cook and bowled by Anderson, scored 57 runs from 141 balls.
The breakthrough moment arrived with a delivery from Anderson, pitched just outside off and of a length, inducing Ramdin to push forward. The ball nipped away slightly, catching the outside edge as Ramdin attempted to defend, resulting in a healthy edge. Cook, at slip, reacted swiftly, moving to his left to grasp the chance securely. With this dismissal, Anderson became England's leading Test wicket-taker, surpassing the esteemed Sir Ian Botham.
James Anderson's friends and family celebrating the historic moment when he became the highest Test wicket-taker for England
Anderson said during an interview with Sky Sports "My immediate emotion was we were back in the game, hoping to get the win." "I'm hugely proud, great to have my family here, to take the record from an English legend is a huge moment.
"I love taking wickets, I love playing for England and that's all I'm bothered about. You pick up milestones along the way but it's a dream come true to play for England. Hopefully I can carry on for a few more years."
The three-match Test series ended in a draw, with each team winning one match, resulting in a 1-1 series tie. Anderson was named the Player of the Series for his outstanding performance, claiming 17 wickets across six innings with an impressive average of 18.00.
Anderson's exceptional performance across formats speaks volumes of his talent and dedication. In Test cricket, he has showcased his mastery over 187 matches, claiming an impressive 700 wickets at an average of 26.52. Transitioning to the limited-overs arena, his prowess shines through in 194 ODIs, where he has scalped 269 wickets at an average of 29.22.
