On Friday, England great James Anderson concluded his over two-decade-long career. He retired after England’s victory over the West Indies by an innings and 114 runs at Lord’s, having secured an impressive tally of 704 wickets from 188 Tests with 32 five-wicket hauls. Legendary Sachin Tendulkar paid tribute to his ‘old foe’, expressing joy at having watched Anderson bowl. Tendulkar wrote on his ‘X’ account, ‘Hey Jimmy! You’ve bowled the fans over with that incredible 22-year spell. Here’s a little wish as you bid goodbye.’
He added, ‘Watching James Anderson bowl with that action, speed, accuracy, swing, and fitness has been a joy. You’ve inspired generations with your game.’
Tendulkar, who retired in 2013, extended his wishes to Anderson for a wonderful life ahead with good health and happiness away from the rushes of professional cricket.
Hey Jimmy!
---Advertisement---You’ve bowled the fans over with that incredible 22-year spell. Here’s a little wish as you bid goodbye.
It has been a joy to watch you bowl – with that action, speed, accuracy, swing and fitness. You’ve inspired generations with your game.
Wish you a wonderful life… pic.twitter.com/ETp2e6qIQ1
— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) July 12, 2024
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“I wish you a wonderful life ahead with good health and happiness as you put those new shoes on for the most important spell of your life – the time with family,” wrote Tendulkar.
Anderson had regarded the Indian batting maestro as the “best batsman” he faced in his career.
“I would have to say Sachin Tendulkar is the best batter. I didn’t have a specific game plan against Sachin Tendulkar. Once he came to bat, I just focused on not bowling a bad ball because he was that kind of player.
“He was crucial for India too. Dismissing him in India changed the entire atmosphere in the ground. He was such a prized wicket,” Anderson said.
Anderson took 149 wickets in 39 Tests against India, including six five-wicket hauls, while Tendulkar scored 2,535 runs in 32 Tests against England at an average of 51.73, including seven centuries and 13 fifties.
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