The initial Test between England and the West Indies concluded on the third day at Lord’s, marking the conclusion of James Anderson’s illustrious career in Test cricket. Although England secured the victory, the atmosphere was tinged with melancholy as fans and players bid farewell to one of cricket’s most legendary fast bowlers.
Emotional exit for a cricket legend
As the match ended, spectators rose to their feet to applaud Anderson as he exited the Lord’s stadium for the final time. Anderson, visibly moved, returned the applause, and it appeared that he had tears in his eyes as he walked off the field, signaling the end of his storied career.
James Anderson spends retirement day with Ben Stokes’ kids
Post-match, Anderson chose to spend his first day of retirement playing cricket with the children of his teammate, Ben Stokes. A heartwarming video circulated online showing Anderson bowling gently to the kids. Stokes later shared that his daughter was batting and his son was fielding during this memorable moment.
Also WATCH: James Anderson receives Guard of Honour from England and West Indies players on Day 3 of Lord’s Test
Stokes reflects on the significance
Stokes expressed his emotions on social media, acknowledging that while his children might not grasp the significance of the moment now, they will appreciate it in the future. He tweeted, “My daughter batting and my son doing the fielding, they got no idea but one day they will @jimmy9.”
My daughter batting and my son doing the fielding, they got no idea but one day they will @jimmy9 ❤️ https://t.co/dzWpqkjtOQ
— Ben Stokes (@benstokes38) July 12, 2024
In the Test, Anderson took four wickets, bringing his career total to 704, placing him just behind Muttiah Muralitharan and Shane Warne in the all-time rankings.
Also READ: England great James Anderson reveals how Virat Kohli’s batting skills made him feel inferior
