England’s record wicket-taker Jimmy Anderson awarded a knighthood

Jimmy Anderson is to be awarded a knighthood for “services to cricket” a year on from the final Test of his record-breaking England career.

 

Anderson was widely tipped to have his previous OBE upgraded after retiring from international cricket last summer and on Friday was the only sportsperson to feature in the resignation honours list of former prime minister – and cricket fan – Rishi Sunak.

 

While Anderson signed off from England duty with 704 Test wickets – a national record and the third-highest tally by any bowler in history – the 42-year is still technically an active cricketer, having re-signed to play for Lancashire this year.

 

A calf injury has delayed Anderson’s start to the current county season but it may not be his last anyway, having recently stated he could play for “three more years”. It means a career haul of 1,126 first-class wickets will only swell further.

 

“Congratulations Sir Jimmy Anderson,” said Richard Thompson, the current chair of the England and Wales Cricket Board. “This is a really well-deserved honour for an England legend who has given so much to our sport.

 

“Jimmy’s career has been marked by extraordinary achievements, not least in winning the Ashes four times and becoming England’s all-time leading wicket-taker.

 

“His skill, determination, and sportsmanship have inspired millions of cricketers and fans alike, in England and around the world.

 

“This is fitting recognition for a true world-great who has given so much to the game on and off the field.”