“Not Happening…”: After seeing a James Anderson retirement poster, Ranchi fan Ravi Shastri requests that they take a long vacation

The fastest bowler in England to shatter records, James Anderson, is unaffected by aging. Even at 41, he still produces great results for England in Test cricket, often getting the better of both young and experienced batsman.

After India was bowled out for 353 in the Ranchi Test, he struck with the new ball on Saturday, having skipper Rohit Sharma caught behind for only two runs to give his side an early lead.

Soon after, a fan carrying a placard that said, “I will start to study when James Anderson retires,” was in the center of the cameras as they followed the action at the JSCA International Stadium.

During an interview, former India all-rounder and coach Ravi Shastri said, “You’ve got to wait, young man.” Take a lengthy vacation; you won’t be studying for long. That won’t be occurring anytime soon.

Anderson is the third-highest wicket-taker in the history of Test cricket and the most productive fast bowler in the competition. He needs three wickets to reach the 700 scalp mark at this point.

“The man (Anderson) deserves your respect and admiration for his extraordinary longevity. It’s amazing to have lasted this long and still be competing at the highest level, Shastri said.

After Sachin Tendulkar played 200 Tests, Anderson is the second most capped player in the history of the format. Anderson made his Test debut in 2003 and is now in his 186th Test.

Anderson dismissed retirement rumors last year, stating he will make his own choice.

“I’ve made an effort not to pay attention to the retirement talk because, in my opinion, that question has existed for the past six years and possibly longer,” Anderson said in an interview with Sky Sports.

“As a bowler, the question becomes, ‘How long have you got left?’ as soon as you reach your 30s.” And I think my bowling has been at its best over the last three or four years. I’ve been bowling with such control, it seems. My physical condition is excellent. My abilities are at their peak right now,” he said.