Jayden Seales reveals the reason behind West Indies not giving a Guard of Honor to James Anderson

West Indies pace bowler Jayden Seales has opened up about the legendary James Anderson not receiving a guard of honor in his final match in international cricket. Jayden Seales stated that the West Indies had planned to give James Anderson a guard of honor, but the tribute was ruined due to their celebration.

James Anderson is set to retire after the first Test match between England and the West Indies at Lord's Cricket Ground. The 42-year-old came to bat in England's first innings on Thursday, July 11. The left-handed batter likely made his last appearance as a batsman in international cricket as England neared victory.

Traditionally, the fielding team forms a guard of honor for a prominent player from the opposition when they walk out to bat for the last time in a Test match. However, the West Indies team missed this opportunity for James Anderson due to their exuberant celebrations following Shoaib Bashir's run out.

We Were Going To Give Him A Guard Of Honour - Jayden Seales

Speaking after Day 2. Jayden Seales said that they had discussed giving a guard of honor to James Anderson in his final Test. Seales stated that Shoaib Bashir's runout led to such extensive celebrations. He added that Jason Holder caught up with Anderson to acknowledge him.

"We spoke about it before he came out to bat, that we were going to give him a guard of honour. Obviously the run out took us all the way down to Swiss Cottage, so it was pretty hard to do the guard of honour for the great man. Luckily, Jason caught up with him," Seales said during the press conference after Day 2.

The West Indies were struggling to dismiss England's tailenders. Debutant Jamie Smith hit a delivery from Seales towards deep cover, and Mikyle Louis executed a direct hit to run out Bashir. The West Indies players were celebrating when Anderson entered the field for likely his final batting appearance.

That's The One Regret About My Innings - Jamie Smith

Jamie Smith expressed disappointment at his dismissal, which ended England's innings. He regretted not giving James Anderson the chance to face a left-arm spinner. Smith said that he was honored with the opportunity to play alongside Anderson in his debut match.

"I think the biggest missed opportunity was not seeing Jimmy face one of their left-arm spinner. That's the one regret about my innings. I'm a bit disappointed I couldn't hit one more six to allow him his moment. It's been an honor to play alongside him in my first game. Everyone will miss him when he goes. If we're in a position where he has to bat in the second innings, I'd be a bit worried, so hopefully, he can get wickets with the ball instead," Smith said at the end of the day's play.

Anderson did not get to bat at all in his final match, remaining at the non-striker's end. England was bowled out for 371 runs and secured a significant first-innings lead of 250 runs. By the end of Day 2, the West Indies were struggling at 79-6.

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