England great Anderson has moments of regret over upcoming retirement

AFP | London

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

England great James Anderson has said there are moments when he questions his upcoming retirement from Test cricket, although he is happy with his decision “90 percent” of the time.

The most successful fast bowler in the format’s history, with 700 wickets, Anderson announced earlier this month that the first Test against the West Indies at Lord’s in July would mark his farewell to England duty.

Anderson, who will turn 42 next month, said yesterday he had thoughts about playing on, having reached an age where most pace bowlers are long since retired.

“In my head I feel like I could play for 10 years,” Anderson told his BBC Tailenders podcast.

“Obviously I realise that is not realistic. “Some days I wake up and wish I was not retiring but then 90 percent of the time I’m happy with it.

“v.” Only spinners Shane Warne and Muttiah Muralitharan have taken more Test wickets than Anderson.

The England spearhead needs nine more wickets in his final match to surpass late Australia hero Warne’s tally, with Muralitharan way out in front on 800 Test wickets.

Anderson’s decision to retire from Tests followed talks with captain Ben Stokes, head coach Brendon McCullum and director of England men’s cricket Rob Key with team chiefs looking to refresh their attack ahead of the 2025/26 Ashes in Australia.