News Desk, Kolkata : Rohan Bopanna achieved a milestone a few weeks ago at the age of 43, securing victory in the men’s doubles category at the Grand Slam. The Australian Open champion not only excels on the tennis court but also dominates the cricket field. Despite being slightly younger than Bopanna, James Anderson is still a cricket sensation, currently playing his 184th Test match with an impressive record of 691 wickets. Only 9 more wickets, and Anderson will join the exclusive 700-wicket club alongside Muttiah Muralitharan and Shane Warne.
The cricket world witnessed a shift when Mark Wood took over from Anderson, proving that he remains relevant in Test cricket. Anderson’s career, spanning decades, has seen him dismiss cricket legends like Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli multiple times—nine times and seven times, respectively. Now, he adds Shubman Gill to his list of accomplishments, claiming the young talent’s wicket five times.
Coming to India, Anderson shattered the record set by Lala Amarnath, who held the record for being the oldest player to feature in a Test match for the country at the age of 72 years. Anderson, at 41 years and 187 days, surpassed Amarnath’s milestone, showcasing his enduring passion for the game. His age-defying performance on Indian soil included taking 35 wickets, proving that as he ages, his craft only sharpens.
The narrative takes an interesting turn when we reflect on the history of long-lasting Test careers. In 1952, Pakistani cricketer Saeed Banday played Test matches for 41 years and 92 days, a record that stood for decades. Anderson, with 41 years and 187 days, is in close pursuit of that remarkable feat. The list of enduring cricketers features a Bengali player as well—Subimal ‘Subhas’ Banerjee, who played Tests for India for 37 years and 124 days, facing the West Indies in 1949.
Anderson’s impact on the Indian pitches cannot be understated. He claimed 35 wickets on Indian soil, showcasing his prowess even in subcontinental conditions. Despite the challenges posed by the Vizag pitch, Anderson’s early morning swing and seam movement made him a formidable opponent. His encounter with Shubman Gill in the morning session of the match resulted in a crucial wicket and 30 runs.
The story of Anderson’s resilience and success is not just about numbers; it’s about the rhythm of the ball, the swing of the bat, and the enduring spirit of a cricketer who continues to defy age. Each delivery, each wicket, adds a new chapter to the saga of a cricketer who has seamlessly transitioned from one generation to another, leaving an indelible mark on the sport.
In the ever-evolving world of cricket, where players come and go, Anderson stands as a testament to the timeless essence of the game. His journey is a melody composed of precision, skill, and a love for the sport that transcends the limitations of age. As the sun sets on each day of play, Anderson’s legacy continues to illuminate the cricketing world, reminding us that cricket is not just a sport; it’s an art, and Anderson is its timeless artist.
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