In the world of sports, there are few conversations as engaging as debating who should be considered the greatest-ever sportsperson for a particular country. In the case of England, former captain Michael Atherton believes that James Anderson 'has to be in the conversation.' Anderson, a seasoned seam bowler, recently achieved a significant milestone by securing his 695th Test wicket during England's defeat to India in the second Test at Vizag.
At 41 years old, Anderson continues to demonstrate his exceptional skills and contribution to the English cricket team. His match figures of 5-76 from 35 overs, with an economy rate of 2.17, highlight his enduring talent. With just five wickets away from reaching the monumental benchmark of 700 Test wickets, Anderson could become the first paceman, and third bowler overall (after spinners Muttiah Muralitharan and Shane Warne), to achieve this feat.
Atherton's admiration for Anderson is evident as he expressed, 'He has to be one of our country's greatest-ever sportsmen. It is one of these great pub debates but he has to be in the conversation.' Atherton recognizes Anderson's incredible skill and consistency, noting that he is bowling as well as he did 15 years ago. The delivery that dismissed Rohit Sharma in the recent Test match was reminiscent of Anderson's skillful bowling against VVS Laxman in 2011 when he first introduced the wobble seam.
However, Anderson's exceptional performance is not the only positive aspect for the English team. Atherton praises Ben Stokes' captaincy despite England's defeat in Vizag. Despite being 143 runs behind on the first innings, Stokes managed to lead the team effectively and keep them in control throughout the game. Atherton commends Stokes' belief in his team and his ability to make necessary adjustments to prevent the game from slipping away.
One notable achievement in the second Test was the performance of debutant spin bowler Shoaib Bashir. Despite having only 10 first-class wickets and six first-class games to his name, Bashir displayed remarkable composure and skill. He held his nerve and bowled accurately and intelligently, picking up crucial wickets, including Rohit Sharma's dismissal, without being overpowered. Atherton acknowledges the context of England's spin attack, highlighting that these young spinners are at the early stages of their career.
With the Test series against India now tied at 1-1, the excitement continues to build as the teams prepare for the third Test in Rajkot from February 15. England will be looking for another strong performance from Anderson and Stokes, while hoping that their spinners can continue to show their potential.
The contributions of James Anderson, Ben Stokes, and the emerging spinners have undoubtedly added to the legacy of English sport. Whether Anderson can solidify his place as England's greatest-ever sportsperson remains a topic of debate, but there is no denying the impact he has had on the game and the respect he has earned from his peers and fans alike. As the series progresses, all eyes will be on Anderson as he inches closer to the historic milestone of 700 Test wickets, further cementing his place in cricketing history.
