Cook’s tribute to pal Jimmy
ALASTAIR COOK hailed Jimmy Anderson as the “best cricketer England have ever produced” after he eclipsed Glenn McGrath’s fast bowling record at The Kia Oval yesterday.
The 36-year-old took the final wicket, his
564th in Tests, to seal a
118-run victory and 4-1 series win.
But the result was overshadowed as Anderson reached his milestone then said farewell to his best mate following Cook’s retirement. Cook, who said he would share his man of the match champagne with Anderson, said: “Everyone was saying to me to get my hands ready. We thought the cricket gods might give us caught Cook bowled Anderson one last time. “But what a game of cricket and what a way to go. I can’t describe what Jimmy must go through to do what he does. He is the best
cricketer England have ever produced, an absolute freak. It’s been a pleasure to stand at slip for him.” Anderson was overwhelmed by emotion when asked about Cook, but was able to talk about his own milestone. “It will take a while to sink in. Cookie retiring has been a big thing for me – I’m trying not to cry,” he said. “But it’s been a special achievement for me. It’s not something I’ve aimed for. I’ve just enjoyed playing for England, it’s an amazing job.”
Anderson insisted he has no intention of following his friend into retirement.
“I’m enjoying playing. As long as that continues, I’ll carry on as long as I can,” he added.
With Anderson going fourth in the all-time list, England captain Joe Root believes he can now set his sights on Anil Kumble on 619.
“I think the most exciting thing is he’s bowling at his best,” said Root.