James Anderson, England’s leading Test wicket-taker of all time, has received a knighthood.
The 43-year-old pace bowler, who took 704 wickets in 188 Tests during an international career spanning 22 years, was knighted by the Princess Royal at Windsor Castle.
Anderson was named in former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s resignation honours list in April for services to cricket.
He claimed 704 wickets in 188 Tests, making him the most successful pace bowler in Test history. Only Sri Lanka’s Muttiah Muralitharan and Australia’s Shane Warne have taken more. Anderson’s consistency, longevity and ability to thrive in all conditions made him a cornerstone of England’s success across generations. He brought his Test career to a close in July 2024 after an emotional farewell at Lord’s, drawing plaudits from players and fans around the world. Yet Anderson’s cricket journey is far from over.
He is in talks with over a one-year extension for the 2026 season, which would take him past his 44th birthday.
