‘Arise, Sir James Anderson!’: England’s legendary pacer knighted after historic 22-year career | Cricket News
England’s greatest fast bowler, James Anderson, has officially been knighted for his extraordinary contributions to cricket, marking a fitting tribute to one of the most enduring and successful careers in sporting history. The 43-year-old was conferred the honour by Anne, Princess Royal, at Windsor Castle on Tuesday, after being named in former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s resignation honours list earlier this year.Go Beyond The Boundary with our YouTube channel. SUBSCRIBE NOW!Anderson, who retired from Test cricket in July after a monumental 22-year international career, stands as the most successful fast bowler in Test history with 704 wickets — a record unmatched by any seamer. His remarkable journey began with his Test debut against Zimbabwe at Lord’s in 2003, and two decades later, he fittingly brought the curtain down on his storied career at the same venue.During his career, Anderson became synonymous with mastery of swing and seam, often dismantling batting line-ups with precision and patience. His control and longevity made him a cornerstone of England’s success across eras — from the early 2000s rebuild to the modern-day dominance under Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum.In total, Anderson represented England in 188 Test matches, the most by any English player and second only to Sachin Tendulkar’s 200 in world cricket. He also took 269 wickets in ODIs, another national record, and 18 wickets in 19 T20Is. Anderson joins an illustrious list of English cricketers to receive knighthood, including Sir Ian Botham, Sir Geoffrey Boycott, Sir Alastair Cook, and Sir Andrew Strauss. His long-time new-ball partner Stuart Broad was honoured with a CBE last year.“Arise, Sir James Anderson! A special day for @jimmy9 as he received his knighthood from Princess Anne at Windsor Castle. The greatest fast bowler to ever do it,” Lancashire Cricket wrote on X, celebrating the moment.
Even in retirement, Anderson remains active in the domestic circuit and is in talks with Lancashire over a one-year extension for the 2026 season, continuing his deep connection with the game that made him a legend.From Burnley to Buckingham Palace, Anderson’s journey embodies cricketing greatness — a blend of skill, endurance, and humility that has earned him the title every English cricketer dreams of: Sir James Anderson.
