James Anderson Ends Illustrious Career With England's Innings Victory Over West Indies

James Anderson claimed a wicket in his final Test as England triumphed over the West Indies by an innings and 114 runs on Friday, July 12.

England required four wickets to secure victory after the West Indies ended day two at 79-6. Anderson quickly took his 704th and last Test wicket by bowling out Joshua Da Silva.

The seamer received a heartfelt guard of honour at the start of the day before taking the opening wicket. However, it was Gus Atkinson who shone on debut by claiming the final three wickets.

Atkinson then swiftly took two more wickets, maintaining pressure on the West Indies. Only Gudakesh Motie (31) managed to reach double figures as the team struggled to build momentum.

With the last ball before a scheduled break, Atkinson secured his 12th wicket of the Test. Ben Duckett caught Jayden Seales at the boundary, concluding Atkinson's figures at 5-61, adding to his first innings haul of 7-45.

— England Cricket (@englandcricket) July 12, 2024

The end of an era is upon us as Anderson bids an emotional farewell. After taking one wicket in the first innings, he followed it up with three more in the second, finishing with 704 in the longest format with 123 of those having come at Lord's.

Historic Achievement for Atkinson

Atkinson has provided hope for the future after a stellar debut which saw him finish on 12-106 over the three days - he is the first England bowler to claim 10+ wickets on debut in a home test since 1946.

He is also just the 19th male player to take a 10-fer on Test match debut, with his figures being the fourth-best anyone has managed in their first match.

It seemed destined for Anderson to complete the win when Motie defensively chipped one back. However, Anderson dropped it from close range after reaching out with one hand.