England’s cricketing icon James Anderson, the country’s all-time leading Test wicket-taker, has been awarded a knighthood in recognition of his extraordinary contribution to the sport.
The 43-year-old pace bowler, who claimed 704 wickets across 188 Tests during an illustrious 22-year international career, was formally knighted by the Princess Royal at Windsor Castle.
Anderson’s honour was announced in former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s resignation honours list in April, celebrating his outstanding services to cricket. His remarkable wicket tally places him among the sport’s all-time greats, with only Sri Lanka’s Muttiah Muralitharan and Australia’s Shane Warne surpassing him in Test wickets.
Despite retiring from Test cricket in July 2024, Anderson continues to represent his boyhood club, Lancashire, in domestic cricket. The legendary pacer is reportedly in discussions for a contract extension for the 2026 season, which would see him playing beyond his 44th birthday.
Anderson’s knighthood cements his status as one of England’s most celebrated cricketers, whose dedication, longevity, and mastery of swing bowling have left an indelible mark on the game.
James Anderson, England’s legendary fast bowler, has an illustrious career filled with remarkable achievements. He is England’s all-time leading Test wicket-taker, having claimed 704 wickets in 188 Tests, the highest for any English bowler. Over a career spanning 22 years (2002–2024), Anderson established himself as one of the most consistent and durable fast bowlers in cricket history. Globally, only Sri Lanka’s Muttiah Muralitharan and Australia’s Shane Warne have taken more Test wickets, highlighting his place among the all-time greats.
Anderson was a key figure in multiple Ashes series victories, renowned for his skillful swing bowling in English conditions. He also became the first English bowler to reach 600 Test wickets in 2018, further cementing his legacy. Even into his 40s, he maintained his pace, accuracy, and effectiveness, demonstrating incredible longevity in the game. At the domestic level, he continued to perform admirably for his boyhood club, Lancashire, inspiring younger players. In recognition of his outstanding contributions to cricket, Anderson was knighted in 2025, an honor befitting his extraordinary impact on the sport.
