James Anderson takes 30th five-wicket haul in Test cricket
Legendary England pacer James Anderson showed his brilliance with the ball on Day 2 of the second Test against Sri Lanka. The veteran bowler, who claimed two wickets on Friday, took another four today to bring up a memorable performance. This was Anderson's 30th five-wicket haul in Test cricket. Here we present the key career Test numbers of Anderson.
Anderson came into the starting XI for the second Test against Sri Lanka and made an instant impact, removing Kusal Perera (6) and Oshada Fernando (0). The Lankans were reduced to 7/2. Anderson dismissed Lahiru Thirimanne next for 43. On Saturday, Anderson removed Angelo Mathews (110) and also came back to dismiss the valiant Niroshan Dickwella (91). He also dismissed Suranga Lakmal (0).
Anderson delivered a performance that will be remembered for a long time. Playing his 157th match, Anderson has taken 606 career Test scalps. Claiming his 30th five-wicket haul in Test cricket has seen him move to number six in the all-time standings. He is the first Englishman and second pacer overall to register 30 or more five-wicket hauls. He surpassed Glenn McGrath's tally (29).
Playing his 14th Test against Sri Lanka, Anderson has claimed 58 wickets so far. This was his fifth five-wicket haul against the Lankans. He also registered his best bowling figures against Sri Lanka. Notably, Anderson has clinched 40 wickets on home soil against Lanka at 17.20. In Sri Lanka, he now has 18 scalps. This was his second five-wicket haul in Sri Lanka.
Anderson is 14 wickets away from surpassing former Indian spin legend Anil Kumble (619) in terms of career Test scalps. With a series against India next, Anderson could get past Kumble and become the third-highest wicket-taker in the history of Test cricket.
Anderson also became the first bowler in Test history to claim at least one five-wicket haul for 15 consecutive years (2007-21). According to Opta, Anderson's 6/40 are the best innings figures he's ever recorded in an overseas Test.
