James Anderson believes the “time is right” to end his Test career with England.
Anderson has announced that July’s first Test against the West Indies at Lord’s will be his final appearance for England in the five-day format.
The 41-year-old became the first seamer and just the third bowler in history to reach 700 Test wickets, after spinners Shane Warne and Muttiah Muralitharan, in his most recent outing against India in Dharamsala in March.
But he has decided to call time on his Test career after talks with head coach Brendon McCullum, who wants to modify his side’s seam attack and build towards the future with one eye on the 2025-26 Ashes.
Anderson wrote on Instagram: “Hi everyone. Just a note to say that the first Test of the summer at Lord’s will be my last Test.
“It’s been an incredible 20 years representing my country, playing the game I’ve loved since I was a kid.
“I’m going to miss walking out for England so much. But I know the time is right to step aside and let others realise their dreams just like I got to, because there is no greater feeling.”
Anderson thanked his wife Daniella, their children Lola and Ruby and his parents for their support, adding: “I’m excited for the new challenges that lie ahead, as well as filling my days with even more golf.
“Thank you to everyone who has supported me over the years, it always meant a lot, even if my face often doesn’t show it.”
It is understood McCullum made a visit to the UK recently from his native New Zealand and spoke with Anderson about his future during a round of golf.
Anderson has taken just 15 wickets in his last eight Tests at an average of 50.8 in the last 12 months.
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