England cricket legend James Anderson has officially been named in the resignation honours list of former UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, marking his knighthood after a 21-year international career. The news has sparked celebrations across the cricketing world, as tributes pour in for the sport’s most successful fast bowler.
Anderson, who retired from international cricket in 2024, holds the record for the most Test wickets by a fast bowler in history—704 in total. The 42-year-old played 188 Tests for England, starting his journey at Lord’s in May 2003 and ending it at the same ground in July 2024 during a match against the West Indies.
A Legendary Career Spanning Over Two Decades
James Anderson’s career stands among the greatest in cricket history. Over 21 years, he became the face of England’s pace attack. His 704 Test wickets are the most by any English player and remain unmatched by any fast bowler worldwide.
Anderson also holds England’s record for the most wickets in One Day Internationals (ODIs), with 269 scalps. While he stepped away from limited-overs cricket in 2015, he also managed 18 wickets in T20 Internationals, finishing just shy of the 1,000 international wicket milestone with a career total of 991 wickets across all formats.
Continued Passion for the Game
Even after retiring from international play, Anderson hasn’t hung up his boots entirely. He is currently recovering from a calf injury but has confirmed plans to play for Lancashire in the domestic circuit this summer. His decision mirrors that of fellow England great Sir Alastair Cook, who continued playing for Essex after his own knighthood in 2019.
Praise from Cricket’s Top Officials
England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) Chair Richard Thompson praised Anderson’s career and his knighthood, stating:
“Congratulations Sir Jimmy Anderson. This is a really well-deserved honour for an England legend who has given so much to our sport.”
Thompson also highlighted Anderson’s major contributions to England’s cricketing success:
“Jimmy’s career has been marked by extraordinary achievements, not least in winning the Ashes four times and becoming England’s all-time leading wicket-taker. His skill, determination, and sportsmanship have inspired millions of cricketers and fans alike, in England and around the world.”
A Knighthood Long in the Making
The recognition comes as part of former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s resignation honours list. Sunak, a known cricket enthusiast, had even faced Anderson in the nets at The Oval during a public event promoting grassroots cricket funding.
Alongside Anderson, the list includes several other notable names, including five former cabinet ministers and British filmmaker Matthew Vaughn. The decision to knight Anderson has received widespread support, especially among former players and cricket analysts.
Andrew Strauss, former England captain and fellow knight, expressed his approval:
“Very much so! I think any fast bowler that plays 188 Test matches deserves a knighthood, I’ll put it that way.”
Global Cricket Community Reacts
The announcement triggered a wave of congratulations from fans, players, and cricket boards around the world. On social media, the hashtag #SirJimmyAnderson quickly began trending, with messages pouring in from fellow athletes and fans alike.
Former teammates like Stuart Broad and Joe Root shared heartfelt messages, celebrating Anderson not only for his skills but also his mentorship and sportsmanship over the years.
What’s Next for Sir Jimmy?
While the knighthood marks the official recognition of Anderson’s incredible achievements, he shows no signs of leaving the game entirely. His plans to return for Lancashire later this season could offer one final chapter in an already legendary career.
For many, Anderson’s journey from a young debutant in 2003 to “Sir Jimmy” in 2025 represents the very best of English cricket.
Sir Jimmy Anderson’s knighthood is more than just a personal achievement—it is a celebration of consistency, discipline, and excellence. With 704 Test wickets and a legacy that spans generations, Anderson’s story continues to inspire cricket lovers around the globe.
As the cricketing world salutes its latest knight, fans can look forward to one more summer of brilliance from a legend who still has a few deliveries left in him.
