James Anderson bids adieu to Test cricket as England thump West Indies at Lord's

James Anderson concluded his illustrious Test career in a spectacular fashion, witnessing a rising star in the form of a young pacer dismantle the West Indies at Lord's in London. Anderson, a stalwart of English cricket, retired with a remarkable tally of 704 wickets, having delivered 40,031 legal balls - a record for a fast bowler in the sport's history. Poignantly, Anderson claimed a wicket with a sensational delivery on the final day of his Test career.

England convincingly defeated the West Indies by an innings and 114 runs, dismissing the visitors for 136 in the second innings. The Test match concluded in just two days and a session. Anderson contributed with four wickets in his final Test, while debutant Gus Atkinson shone with an impressive 12-wicket haul - seven in the first innings and five in the second, providing Anderson with a fitting farewell.

TEARS AT LORD'S..!!!!!!

- Farewell, James Anderson.  pic.twitter.com/XWx0DWLWFf

— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) July 12, 2024

Despite Atkinson's stellar performance, it was Anderson who led the team off the field, receiving a standing ovation from the Lords crowd in recognition of his exceptional career spanning 188 Tests over 19 years. Anderson's legacy includes records for most wickets, deliveries, and matches by a fast bowler.

In a touching moment, Anderson remained composed as he received a guard of honor at the start of the day's play. Although he missed out on adding to his batting record, Anderson's team secured a resounding victory by an innings and 114 runs, allowing him to bid farewell on a high note. The two teams are set to face each other in the second Test at Trent Bridge, Nottingham on Thursday, July 18.

For the final time James Anderson walks out at Lord's 

A guard of honour from both sets of players  pic.twitter.com/mgqNu8Twez

— Sky Sports Cricket (@SkyCricket) July 12, 2024

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