This article was originally crafted by me on 12-06-2021. Reposted for archival purposes.
Sir Alastair Cook was the one among the Englishmen who held the record of playing his part in the most number of test matches. He bid adieu from International cricket a few years back. In fact, it was also time for him to say goodbye to his feat. Because, that was snatched by our beloved speedster in the second test vs New Zealand.
Jimmy Anderson is now the most capped England player in test match cricket. It seems even more remarkable than Cook’s career as Jimmy is still persisting to trouble his opposition at 38. So far, the pacer’s test numbers can be referred to as nothing but legendary. He has got 616 scalps and 30 fifers under his belt.
“I thought I wasn’t good enough to play International cricket”- These were his words to ESPN cricinfo. He also stated that he had some really mixed feelings, since it was a very big step from county cricket.
The 38 year old has definitely not been a sensation in white ball cricket. But when it comes to Tests, the chief format of the game, his numbers are a dream to young speedsters. 3 more dismissals will take him past Anil Kumble as the 3rd leading wicket taker. The interesting thing is, Jimmy hasn’t even shown signs to hang up his boots. He’s way past his prime but he is still getting by. It is only half of 2021 and he has already bagged a fifer.
The ongoing series with New Zealand has been challenging for him. He managed to pick up two wickets in the first game, but the grit of Devon in that match stopped him from going further. It’s not a huge problem since this series is not a decider of his career and he is continuing in fine form. Let’s see what more the guy is capable of in the upcoming days.
