James Anderson is the greatest fast bowler that has ever played the game: Brian Lara

In the purest sense, the most coveted attribute for any cricketer, particularly a fast bowler, is enduring longevity. When discussing this quintessential trait, none can parallel the illustrious legacy of English pacer, James Anderson. Having graced the Test arena for over 21 years, Anderson is poised to make his final appearance at Lord's, which is scheduled to host the inaugural Test of the three-match series against the West Indies.

Upon the announcement that the Lord's Test would be Anderson's final game, numerous pundits have been lavish in their praise. A week ahead of what promises to be an emotional moment for English cricket, former West Indian luminary, Brian Lara, shared his thoughts on the celebrated English pacer. A legend himself, Lara termed Anderson as the "greatest fast bowler that has ever played the game." Highlighting Anderson's remarkable statistics in the longest format (700 wickets in 187 matches, the most by a pacer and the third in the all-time list), he commended Anderson as an exceptional servant of English cricket. 

"He is the greatest fast bowler that has ever played the game. It's just his numbers are incredible and he has seved England well," shared Lara.

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"He's the greatest fast bowler that ever played the game"

Brian Lara praises Jimmy Anderson ahead of his final Test match for England 🙌 pic.twitter.com/Po8agk0Y0C

— Sky Sports Cricket (@SkyCricket) July 2, 2024

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He also mentioned that Anderson's retirement was not entirely his decision, as was known when the news had been released mid-May, but rather prompted by managing director Rob Key, head coach Brendon McCullum, and captain Ben Stokes. However, he noted that Anderson accepted the decision with grace and emphasised that he is not one to take offense easily.

"I know for a fact that he didn't have that in mind, but I think he has accepted it quite well. And, If that's the choice of the captain and the coach or the selectirs, then so be it. He's had a tremendous career. I don't think that he's going to be slighted by it," added Lara.

Just eight wickets shy, the 41-year-old Anderson has a genuine opportunity to overtake the Aussie great Shane Warne and end his career as the second-highest wicket-taker, trailing only the Sri Lankan maestro Muttiah Muralitharan.