In a historic feat, James Anderson has etched his name in cricketing annals by becoming the first pace bowler to achieve 700 wickets in Test cricket. The momentous occasion unfolded on the third day of the fifth Test against India in Dharamsala when Anderson dismissed Kuldeep Yadav, marking his entry into the exclusive 700-wicket club.
Acknowledging this remarkable accomplishment, Anderson now stands as the third cricketer to reach this milestone, trailing behind spin maestros Muttiah Muralitharan of Sri Lanka, who boasts an unparalleled 800 wickets, and the late Australian legend Shane Warne, who notched up 708 wickets.
The veteran pacer’s joy knew no bounds as his teammates gathered around him in celebration when Yadav, the overnight batsman, succumbed to a delivery just outside off. The crowd at Dharamsala rose to their feet, delivering a standing ovation to Anderson, who proudly raised the historic ball.
Cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar, expressing admiration for Anderson’s “stellar achievement,” took to X, formerly Twitter, to laud the English fast bowler. Tendulkar’s praise encapsulated the awe-inspiring journey of Anderson, highlighting the consistency and skill that the fast bowler showcased over his remarkable 22-year career.
“A fast bowler playing for 22 years and performing so consistently to be able to take 700 wickets would have sounded like fiction until Anderson actually made it happen…” wrote Tendulkar, encapsulating the sentiments of cricket enthusiasts worldwide.
Fans of the sport have been captivated by Anderson’s extraordinary longevity and skill set throughout the years. The English stalwart entered the series only 10 wickets away from the historic 700-mark and commenced the final match with 698 wickets, making each delivery a testament to his enduring prowess in the world of cricket.
