Finally, it’s a farewell to one of the world’s top-rated test cricketers, James Anderson. The storied career comes to an end leaving behind an ever-lasting legacy with individual records and setting up feats with mate Stuart Broad. Together, they have been exceptional. As Anderson closes this chapter, let’s have a look at Stuart and Broad’s achievements together.
How James Anderson and Stuart Broad have been together?
James Anderson and Stuart Broad have etched their names in cricket history as the most prolific Test bowling partnership. Anderson became a regular in the England Test team during the 2007/08 season and first played alongside Broad in March 2008. Since then, the duo has taken an astonishing 1,039 Test wickets from 138 matches, surpassing the previous record of 1,001 wickets held by Shane Warne and Glenn McGrath from 104 Tests.
Their partnership not only broke records but also played a key role in England’s success at home during the 2010s. Notable victories include home series wins against India in 2011, Australia in 2013 and 2015, and South Africa in 2016. Anderson’s consistency on home soil made him a formidable force, taking 438 wickets in 106 home Tests, the second-most by any bowler at home, only behind Muttiah Muralidaran’s 493. Broad also stands out with 398 home Test wickets.
Their most effective performances have often come on home soil. Anderson and Broad have twice combined to take 15 wickets in a match, first against New Zealand at Lord’s in 2013 and then against Sri Lanka at Headingley in 2016. Lord’s, known for its swing-friendly conditions and helpful slope, has been a particularly productive venue for them. They have taken 14 wickets or more there on four occasions, dismantling teams like India in 2011 and 2018, and the West Indies in 2012.
Anderson’s effectiveness extended beyond home conditions. In 32 Tests in Asia, he claimed 92 wickets at an average of 27.51. His standout performances include being instrumental in England’s series win in India in 2012, with 12 wickets, and playing a crucial role in England’s 2022 series win in Pakistan, taking 8 wickets at 18.5. He was also the leading wicket-taker in England’s last Ashes win in Australia, with 24 wickets at 26, and had notable performances in the West Indies and New Zealand.
Stuart Broad’s illustrious cricket career concluded in a fittingly dramatic fashion during the final Test of the 2023 Ashes series at The Oval. In Test match number 2515, Broad showcased his enduring skill and competitive spirit, scoring 7 and an unbeaten 8* with the bat. His bowling remained sharp, claiming figures of 2/49 and 2/62. Over his 167-Test career, Broad amassed 604 wickets at an average of 27.68, including 28 instances of taking four wickets in an innings, 20 five-wicket hauls, and three ten-wicket match performances.
Also, Anderson’s career longevity is remarkable, playing Test cricket until the age of 41. From his 36th birthday in 2018 until his final Test, he played 50 Tests and took 164 wickets with an impressive average of 23.91, better than his overall career average of 26.45. His final Test performance against the West Indies at Lord’s was a fitting end to a remarkable career.
The James Anderson and Stuart Broad partnership has set a new standard for Test bowling pairs, with their combined 1,039 wickets establishing a benchmark for future generations. Their contributions have been instrumental in England’s successes and have left an indelible mark on the history of cricket.
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