NEW DELHI:
England
's veteran pacer
James Anderson
achieved a remarkable milestones as the fifth and final Test match against India starts in
Dharamsala
on Thursday.
The England Cricket Board (ECB) took to their official X (formerly Twitter) account to announce the impending feat, stating, "Dharamsala will be the 50th ground @jimmy9 has played Test Cricket at...".
This declaration underscores the significance of Anderson's impending milestone, marking his unparalleled journey across the cricketing globe.
In the ongoing Test series against India, Anderson has showcased his enduring prowess, delivering notable performances across three matches. With eight wickets to his name at an average of 34.37, including a stellar best bowling figure of 3/47, the 41-year-old exemplifies resilience and skill.
However, it's not merely statistical achievements that beckon Anderson; he stands poised to etch his name in cricketing history books. A mere two wickets away from the elusive 700-wicket mark, Anderson is on the brink of becoming the first pace bowler to achieve this feat.
This potential milestone places him in esteemed company, alongside spin maestros
Muttiah Muralitharan
and
Shane Warne
, with 800 and 708 scalps respectively.
As England prepare for the final showdown, the series stands at a pivotal juncture. Despite seizing an early advantage with a hard-fought victory in Hyderabad, England faltered, succumbing to three consecutive losses against a resilient Indian side. The contests in Rajkot and Ranchi witnessed England's valiant efforts, only to be thwarted by India's unwavering resolve.
With both teams eyeing World Test Championship points, the final encounter in Dharamshala assumes added significance. India currently dominate the WTC standings, while England seek to bolster their position from the eighth spot.
(With inputs from ANI)
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