James Anderson prepares for emotional farewell for the last Time in World Cricket

Following their selection for this week’s series opener against the West Indies at Lord’s, Surrey’s Jamie Smith and Gus Atkinson will play their final Test for the squad that James Anderson captained. Two days before the commencement of the match on Wednesday, England announced their starting eleven on Monday, ending any lingering rumours regarding their lineup for the first of a three-Test series.

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Although Anderson feels he is bowling better than ever as his 42nd birthday draws near, he revealed on Monday that he had accepted his inevitable retirement from Test cricket. After meeting with England managing director Rob Key, red-ball coach Brendon McCullum, and Test captain Ben Stokes in late April, he essentially decided to retire. Anderson was informed by the management that they intended to make adjustments in order to assemble a team for the Australian Ashes series in 2025–2026.

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After a record-breaking career spanning two decades, Anderson’s 188th and final Test appearance will signal the end of his career.

Only Indian batsman Sachin Tendulkar has played more five-day matches than fast bowler Anderson, who has claimed more than 700 Test wickets.

Anderson, who will serve as a mentor to England’s quicks for the rest of the season, warmed up for his Test exit with an impressive seven-wicket haul for Lancashire against Nottinghamshire last week in the County Championship.

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“I feel like I’m still bowling as well as I ever have,” he continued.

“But I knew it had to end at some point. Whether it’s now or in a year or two … I’d love just to be able to contribute somehow this week.