Ben Stokes clears air on James Anderson’s retirement

Veteran England pacer James Anderson, the country’s all-time leading wicket-taker will retire from Test Cricket following the series opener against West Indies at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Stadium on July 10. With 700 Test wickets in 188 matches, the legendary fast bowler is set to draw curtains on his illustrious career at the historic cricket ground. 

The 41-year-old bowler is retiring from international cricket after the England team management which includes Test skipper Ben Stokes, head coach Brendon McCullum and director of cricket Rob Key, insisted that they want to opt for young pace bowling options while preparing for the next Ashes in 2025-26.

The Three Head Lions skipper expressed his interest to be in the finish form to reclaim the Ashes from Australia in the upcoming winter.

“After a nearly five-month break from Test matches, we’ve had ample time to reflect on how to drive the team’s progress forward,” Stokes said to Sky Sports.

“As captain for the past two years, my focus has been on progressing this team. During the initial years, we’ve been very much oriented towards the immediate goals and needs. But two years is a significant period, and I now want to implement strategies to push this team to its full potential – both as a collective unit and in terms of individual development. Looking ahead to the next 18 months and our tour to Australia, our goal is clear – we want to reclaim the Urn,” he added.

“Our current group of up-and-coming bowlers is exceptionally talented and promising. Providing them with the experience of international cricket and Test matches will significantly strengthen our position as we aim to win the Ashes in Australia.”

Stokes also said that Anderson is also ready to serve the team after retirement. He wants to serve as a member of the coaching staff for the Test side. 

“Jimmy is a terrific bowler with the ability to be able to compete in Tests even today. However, when we discussed the future with him, we outlined our reasons, and he understood. While it was difficult for him to accept, Jimmy is excited about the prospect of remaining involved with the team as a mentor and coach to the other bowlers,” Stokes concluded.