Cricket fraternity honors James Anderson as he retires from Test cricket

Cricket fraternity bids farewell to England's legendary pacer James Anderson as he retired from red-ball cricket during the first Test against the West Indies. The match at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground saw the home side secure a commanding victory by an innings and 114 runs on Friday.

In his final Test appearance, Anderson showcased his enduring skill, taking four wickets and receiving a standing ovation from the crowd as well as the English and West Indies teams as he left the field for the last time.

Anderson's retirement marks the end of a remarkable career in red-ball cricket. With 704 wickets to his name, he retires as the most prolific fast bowler in Test history and the third-highest wicket-taker overall, trailing only the legendary spinners Shane Warne (708 wickets) and Muttiah Muralitharan (800 wickets).

Tributes poured in from cricketers around the globe, celebrating Anderson’s incredible achievements and his contributions to the sport. Pakistan’s white-ball skipper Babar Azam expressed his admiration while cricketing icon Sachin Tendulkar lauded Anderson's dedication and impact on the game.

"It was a privilege to face your cutters, Jimmy! The beautiful game will now miss one of its greatest. Your incredible service to the sport has been nothing short of remarkable. Huge respect for you, GOAT," Babar Azam posted.

"Thank you for serving this sport for over 21 years James. You have been a source of motivation to many of us. Best of luck for your journey ahead," Shaheen Afridi posted.

"It's not every day that an athlete like James Anderson comes along. As you hang your boots, world cricket loses one of its finest craftsmen! Your ability to swing the ball both ways, combined with accuracy and sheer hard work has set you apart as one of the greatest pace bowlers of our time. The sight of you running in at full steam, ball in hand, will be dearly missed by all As you step into the next chapter of your life, I wish you nothing but the best. It's been a pleasure to share the field with you, and the game will surely miss your presence. Cheers to a phenomenal career Jimmy you," Yuvraj Singh posted.

"Congratulations on such an outstanding career, James Anderson. It was a pleasure facing you and you're certainly one of the finest bowlers produced by our beautiful game. You've Inspired generations in England and beyond. There will never be another @jimmy9. Happy retirement," Ahmed Shehzad posted.

"Huge respect to @jimmy9 on an amazing test career You were a beast on the pitch, always keeping the batters on their toes, 704 wickets is Insane Congrats on an incredible journey bhai. You'll be missed," Hasan Ali posted.

"Hey Jimmy! 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 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," Sachin Tendulkar posted.

Reflecting on his farewell, Anderson expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support from the crowd and everyone involved.

"It's been an amazing week, been overwhelmed with the reaction of the crowd and everyone around the ground," Anderson told Sky Sports.

"I'm just proud of what I've achieved," he added.