England Cricket Legend James Anderson Honoured with Knighthood
NEW DELHI: In a moment of immense pride for cricket fans worldwide, England’s fast-bowling maestro James Anderson, affectionately known as “Jimmy”, has been awarded a knighthood in former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s resignation honours list. This prestigious recognition celebrates Anderson’s unparalleled contributions to the sport over a remarkable career spanning more than two decades.
Anderson, who retired from Test cricket in July 2024, leaves behind a legacy as the most prolific fast bowler in the history of the format. With a staggering 704 Test wickets, he stands as England’s all-time leading wicket-taker and ranks third overall, behind only spin legends Shane Warne of Australia (708) and Muttiah Muralitharan of Sri Lanka (800). His durability, skill, and ability to swing the ball both ways made him a nightmare for batsmen across the globe.
According to an official statement from the British government, Anderson will be knighted for his “services to cricket”, a fitting tribute to a player who redefined fast bowling with his artistry and consistency. The 42-year-old debuted for England in 2003 and went on to play 188 Test matches, a testament to his extraordinary fitness and dedication to the game.
Former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, a self-confessed cricket enthusiast who led the Conservative Party from 2022 to 2024, personally acknowledged Anderson’s contributions. Last year, Sunak shared a memorable video of a net session with Anderson and other England players, showcasing his admiration for the bowler’s skills. This knighthood, included in Sunak’s final honours list, reflects the deep respect Anderson commands both on and off the field.
Even after stepping away from international cricket, Anderson shows no signs of slowing down. In January 2024, he signed a one-year contract with Lancashire, the county club where his journey began. Now in his 25th first-class season, Anderson continues to inspire the next generation of cricketers with his passion and relentless work ethic.
Born in Burnley, Lancashire, Anderson’s rise from a promising young talent to a cricketing icon is a story of grit and perseverance. He holds numerous records, including being the first fast bowler to cross the 700-wicket mark in Tests, achieving this feat in March 2024 against India. His ability to adapt—from fiery pace in his early years to a master of control and swing in his later career—has cemented his status as one of the all-time greats.
As Sir James Anderson, he joins an elite group of cricketers, including Sir Ian Botham and Sir Alastair Cook, who have received such honours. This knighthood is not just a personal milestone for Anderson but a celebration of Test cricket itself—a format he dominated with unwavering commitment.
For England cricket fans, this honour is a bittersweet reminder of Anderson’s retirement from the international stage. However, his continued presence in domestic cricket and his potential role as a mentor ensure that his influence on the game will endure for years to come.