James Anderson reflects on his retirement as last Test draws near

England pacer James Anderson has opened up about his upcoming retirement from Test cricket, revealing that while he feels capable of playing for another decade in his mind, he acknowledges the reality of his situation.

The legendary fast bowler is set to retire after the first Test against the West Indies, which will be held at Lord’s Cricket Ground starting July 10. At 41, Anderson is hailed as England's greatest pacer, being the only fast bowler to surpass 700 wickets in Test cricket. He will retire just shy of his 42nd birthday.

During an episode of The Tailenders podcast, Anderson shared his mixed feelings about retirement. 

"In my head, I feel like I could play for 10 years. Obviously, I realise that is not realistic. Some days I wake up and wish I was not retiring. Ninety per cent of the time I’m happy with it. Not many people in sports get the chance to retire over the age of 40. I'm happy I've made it this far," Anderson said.

Despite his determination to continue, Anderson admitted there were moments when he considered stepping away from the game. 

"There's been two or three moments on the field, if the opposition are 500-3, I'll be thinking, 'do I really want to still be doing this? They are fleeting thoughts - nothing that has stuck with me for more than an over," he further added.

He also discussed the external pressures and constant questions about his longevity in the sport. 

"I don't know how much of that was me, and how much it was the external noise that comes with ageing. For the last six years, or even longer, it's been, 'how long can you go on for? That in itself, certainly for the last couple of years, has been quite draining.” Anderson remarked.

It is worth noting that throughout his illustrious career, Anderson has represented England in 187 Test matches, claiming over 700 wickets. He stands among the legends of the game, with only Sri Lanka's Muttiah Muralitharan (800 wickets) and Australia's Shane Warne (708 wickets) having taken more wickets in Test cricket.