Australia's Lyon Shocked By 'Still England's Best Bowler' Anderson's Retirement

James Anderson's retirement from Test cricket has left Australian spinner Nathan Lyon in disbelief, as he considers the English veteran to still be their best bowler.

England's cricket legend Anderson will conclude his illustrious red-ball career when Brendon McCullum's side hosts West Indies at Lord's, starting on July 10. The Lancashire bowler exits the international stage as England's all-time leading wicket-taker in Test cricket, with 700 dismissals in 187 appearances.

Anderson's wicket-taking feats are the highest by any pace bowler in Test history. His decision to retire was met with mixed reactions, including from Ashes rival Lyon. "Obviously, Jimmy Anderson is in the conversation of being the greatest fast bowler of all time," Lyon told BBC Radio 5 Live.

"Good luck to Jimmy and I look forward to playing with him at Lancashire, but I'm glad he won't be coming out to the next Ashes," Lyon added. England Cricket also paid tribute to Anderson on Twitter, calling him "Simply the greatest."

Simply the greatest.

— England Cricket (@englandcricket)May 11, 2024

Anderson's retirement appears influenced by England's future plans, focusing on The Ashes in Australia across late 2025 and into 2026. By then, Anderson will be 43 years old. England coach McCullum, managing director Rob Key, and captain Ben Stokes aim to test new pace-bowling talents like Brydon Carse, Matthew Potts, and Gus Atkinson.

With Stuart Broad already announcing his retirement after his last match against Australia, Lyon expressed surprise at England's decision to let Anderson go. "My care factor for England is pretty low, but I was pretty surprised when I did read that they tapped him on the shoulder," said Lyon.

"I look at James and what he's been able to do for England cricket; it's pretty remarkable. This is just my opinion – I still think he would be England's best bowler," Lyon concluded.