"Ridiculous..." - Steve Smith's farewell message for 'most skillful bowler' James Anderson goes viral

Australia premier batter Steve Smith came up with a heartfelt farewell message for James Anderson after the fast bowler ended his Test career for the England National Cricket Team. He called the fast bowler the most skillful bowler and hailed him for his longevity.

One of the finest Test bowlers in the history of the game James Anderson ended his career on Friday (12th July). The fast bowler turned up for England for the one last time in the first Test of the three-match series against West Indies at the Lord's Cricket Ground in London.

James Anderson for the last two decades was the backbone of the England Test team and carried the team's bowling lineup. The fast bowler made sure that he ended his career on high and the kind of longevity that he showcased might not be seen anymore.

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James Anderson even in his 40s was amongst the fittest guys to have played the game. In an era where players prefer T20 leagues over longer format, the fast bowler ensured that he gave everything for the team in Test cricket and helped them get some famous wins.

Be it at home or overseas, James Anderson made the same kind of impact on the team in every condition and helped his team win the game. In his last Test match, he bowled sensationally well and helped his team finish the game in three days.

James Anderson picked one wicket in the first innings and then made sure he came with an even better performance with the ball in the second innings. The fast bowler picked three wickets and made the ball talk. He troubled West Indies batters with his skills.

James Anderson bowled impeccable lines and lengths and even in his last Test match, he had the same intensity as in his first game. His spell saw England winning the game by a massive margin of innings and 114 runs and taking a 1-0 lead in the three-match series between the teams.

Ridiculous longevity and resilience - Steve Smith on James Anderson

James Anderson received a huge amount of praise and congratulatory messages on his career. Steve Smith was amongst them as he hailed the pacer as one of the most skillful bowlers he has ever faced. Taking to his Instagram, he stated:

"Congratulations @jimmyag on an incredible career. One of the most skilful bowlers I've faced. Ridiculous longevity and resilience! Enjoy retirement."

In 88 games, James Anderson picked up 704 wickets and ended as the leading wicket-taker in terms of fast bowlers in Test cricket. Overall he ended his career as the third-highest wicket-taker in the Tests and also played the second-most number of games in the format. Him retiring will leave a massive void in the England team. It's fair to say that to find a player of his quality will be tough for the Three Lions. The Fast bowler, however, will be around the team as from the next match, he will serve as a mentor of the team.