Brian Lara hails this pacer as 'Greatest to ever play the game'

Former West Indies captain Brian Lara has lauded England pacer James Anderson, naming him the greatest fast bowler ever to grace the game. 

Anderson, who has amassed an impressive 700 wickets in 187 Tests, is set to retire next week, concluding a remarkable international career spanning over two decades.

Reflecting on Anderson's illustrious career, Lara praised the veteran bowler's achievements and his global respect.

“He is the greatest fast bowler that has ever played the game. His numbers are incredible, and he has served England well. I know he did not have that in mind (retiring from cricket), but I think he has accepted it. If that is the choice of his captain, coach, and selectors, then so be it,” Lara said.

The former legend emphasized Anderson's unparalleled legacy, stating, “He has had a tremendous career for England. There are not many England cricketers who come close to Anderson (when asked about Anderson’s legacy). He has taken the most Test wickets as a fast bowler and had a career that lasted for over 23 years. I think only Courtney Walsh comes close to him in terms of the number of years he has played, but his legacy is going to be tremendous, and I think as an English cricketer, he has the respect of the world."

The right-arm pacer made his Test debut against Zimbabwe at Lord’s on May 22, 2003, where he claimed a five-wicket haul in the first innings, finishing with figures of 5/73 and 0/65. His remarkable consistency and skill have made him the first pacer and third bowler overall to reach 700 wickets in Test cricket. 

As he approaches his final match, Anderson can surpass former Australian spinner Shane Warne’s record of 708 wickets, potentially ending his career as the second-highest wicket-taker in Test history.