Top 10 Unforgettable Tests of James Anderson at Old Trafford

1. South Africa (2022)

In 2023, England and South Africa clashed with each other in the second Test at Old Trafford. The opening Test went to the Proteas by an innings and 12 runs, and following this heavy defeat, the Manchester Test became do-or-die for England. In the second game, the toss favoured South Africa and they decided to bat first.

England bowlers received a positive start in the match as the trio of James Anderson, Stuart Broad, and Ben Stokes wrecked South Africa’s batting unit with their fierce pace bowling. Anderson emerged as the most effective bowler for England in the first innings, picking up 3/32 figures in his 15-over spell. The marvellous bowling performance emboldened England’s batters as they completely dominated the Proteas' bowling attack and scored 415/9 in the first innings.

With their spunky performance in the first innings, England were now in a commanding position with a 264-run lead. In the second innings, Anderson continued his form and delivered an early breakthrough in the form of the Proteas’ skipper Dean Elgar. After the South Africa captain, Anderson hunted Simon Harmer and Kagiso Rabada as well. In the end, England emerged victorious by an innings and 85 runs and Anderson became the leading wicket-taker in the match with six wickets.