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JA
Cricket Biography

James Anderson

British · Born 1982

England700 WicketsGreatest Fast Bowler by Tests
Fast Bowler
188
tests
704
wickets
26.45
average

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England's greatest ever bowler — 700+ Test wickets and the leading wicket-taker among fast bowlers in Test history, whose mastery of swing in English conditions is without equal.

James Anderson became the most prolific fast bowler in Test history when he surpassed Glenn McGrath's record of 563 wickets. He went on to take over 700 Test wickets — the only fast bowler in history to do so. His mastery of swing bowling in English conditions — both conventional and reverse swing — is the most sophisticated in the sport's history. He played Test cricket into his early 40s.

He took his 700th Test wicket in 2024 — becoming the only fast bowler in history to reach that milestone.

Did You Know?

Career Honours

  • 700+ Test wickets (most by fast bowler in history)
  • England's leading wicket-taker
  • Wisden Cricketer of Year 2008