On Thursday, England legend James Anderson set a world record as he prepared to retire from international cricket. Anderson is now playing his farewell Test for England, against the West Indies at Lord’s. After Day 2, the West Indies are 79/6 in their second innings, behind England by 171 runs. The hosts scored 371 in their first innings after the West Indies opened the batting with 121.
The contest could end on Day 3, which is scheduled for Friday, but Anderson has already accomplished a monumental achievement during the course of the game, becoming the first fast bowler in Test cricket history to bowl 40,000 or more deliveries. In 188 games, Andeson has bowled 40,001 deliveries.
Anderson Makes History
Anderson made cricket history on Thursday by becoming the first bowler in Test cricket history to bowl 40,000 or more deliveries during play. The 41-year-old, who is now participating in his 188th Test, has made 40,001 deliveries.
After spinners Muttiah Muralitharan, Anil Kumble, and Shane Warne, he is currently ranked fourth overall in terms of most balls bowled in Test matches. The top five is completed by his former England teammate Stuart Broad, who retired following the Ashes 2023.
Most deliveries in Test cricket
- Muttiah Muralitharan – 44039 (133 Tests)
- Anil Kumble – 40850 (132 Tests)
- Shane Warne – 40705 (145 Tests)
- James Anderson – 40001 (188 Tests*)
- Stuart Broad – 33698 (167 Tests)
