James Anderson reclaims Spot of No. 1 Bowler in Test Rankings; Breaks 87 Year Old Record
England’s James Anderson has claimed the top spot in the ICC Test bowling rankings, pushing Australia’s Pat Cummins to second place.
The 40-year-old’s achievement comes after his impressive performance in England’s 267-run win against New Zealand in Mount Maunganui last week.
Anderson, who made his debut in May 2003, has now played 178 Tests and taken 682 wickets. His most recent reign as the No.1 Test bowler lasted for five months in 2018 before being overtaken by South Africa’s Kagiso Rabada. However, Anderson now finds himself in top position for the sixth time in his career.
Anderson becomes Oldest player to top rankings since 1936
Anderson’s return to the top spot is a historic moment in cricket, as he is the oldest player to hold the position since 1936. At 40 years and 207 days, he has beaten the previous record set by Australian leg-spinner Clarrie Grimmett. Anderson’s contribution to England’s recent success in Tests, with the team winning ten out of their last 11 matches, has been crucial.
With a total of 866 ranking points, Anderson is only two points ahead of India’s R Ashwin in second place, who has also been in excellent form. Cummins is now in third place with 858 points, but could still regain top billing with two Tests against India in the coming weeks. Despite flying home to deal with a family health issue, the Australian will be back in action soon and looking to regain the top spot.
Anderson’s longevity and recent form
Anderson’s return to the top of the rankings is a testament to his remarkable longevity. He has been performing consistently over the years, and his recent form has been nothing short of outstanding.
Since turning 35 in July 2017, he has taken 202 wickets in 56 games at an average of 20.56. During the Mount Maunganui Test, he and his teammate Stuart Broad broke the record for most wickets taken as a bowling partnership, previously held by Australia’s Glenn McGrath and Shane Warne.
Other changes in rankings
Tom Blundell and Devon Conway of New Zealand have risen to career-high positions in the rankings, with Ollie Pope, Harry Brook, and Ben Duckett of England also climbing to their best rankings.
Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel of India have moved up in the Test all-rounder rankings following their team’s victory over Australia. Meanwhile, Wanindu Hasaranga of Sri Lanka has taken over Rashid Khan of Afghanistan as the No.1 T20I bowler.
Anderson’s return to the No.1 Test bowler position is a remarkable feat for a player who has been performing consistently over the years.
His recent form has been nothing short of outstanding, and his contribution to England’s recent success in Tests cannot be overstated. While his reign at the top could be short-lived, Anderson’s legacy as one of the all-time greats of the game is already secured.
