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Fast bowler Jimmy Anderson broke England’s Test wicket-taking record in Antigua overnight, in a double celebration.
Anderson took 2-67 and 2-72 against the West Indies in the first Test to take him to 384 wickets in exactly 100 Tests, eclipsing Sir Ian Botham’s 383 wickets in 102 Tests.
Anderson’s been playing for 12 years averaging 29.77, Sir Ian played for 15 years, averaging 28.40.
Asked by David Gower for his reaction after setting the record, Anderson said, “My first reaction was we’re back in the game to win, my reaction now it’s a great honour to beat a legend’s record.”
Sir Ian was in the commentary box, standing up and clapping above his head when Anderson broke his record. He was just as excited as Anderson’s parents, who were in the stands.
Sir Ian was with Anderson and Gower at the post-match interview, and added, “I always knew Jimmy would break my record, it was just a matter of when.
“I’ve got something for you Jimmy, but it’s too big to bring here, it’s the biggest bottle of wine I could find anywhere in the world.”
Anderson is now 14th on the all-time list of wicket-takers and just in front of him are two South Africans, Makhaya Ntini, with 390 from 101 Tests, and Dale Steyn’s 396 from 78.
But Anderson had to share the honours of the final day with 23-year-old Jason Holder.
Playing in only his fourth Test, Holder made a patient and unbeaten 103 in 181 minutes, facing 149 deliveries. Holder’s previous Test digs netted 38, 52, 1, 23, 2, and 16 and his maiden century – at any level – secured the most honourable of draws.
England hasn’t won a Test overseas since 2012.
Set 438 to win in just over four sessions, the Windies finished with 7-350, thanks to two partnerships featuring Holder.
The first was with skipper-keeper Denesh Ramdin, who batted for 181 minutes for his 57 off 141, the second with Kemar Roach, who stayed with Holder for 55 minutes for his unbeaten 15, after starting with a Test batting average of 9.
A great game of cricket has set up the next two Tests of the series.