It was a proud and emotional morning at Windsor Castle as one of England’s greatest ever cricketers, James Anderson, officially became Sir James.
The 43-year-old fast bowling icon was knighted by Princess Anne, marking another remarkable milestone in a career that has already rewritten the history books.
A Royal Honour for a True Gentleman of the Game
Anderson received the honour for his outstanding services to cricket, following his inclusion in former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s resignation honours list earlier this year.
During the ceremony, the England legend bowed his head as Princess Anne presented him with the insignia of a Knight Bachelor — a moment of quiet dignity for a player who has always let his performances speak louder than words.
His county side, Lancashire Cricket, shared the proud moment online, writing:
“Arise, Sir James Anderson! A special day for [Jimmy Anderson] as he received his knighthood from Princess Anne at Windsor Castle. The greatest fast bowler to ever do it.”
Two Decades of Brilliance on the Cricket Field
The honour comes 22 years after Anderson made his international debut and just over a year since he bowled his final delivery for England.
Born in Burnley, the right-arm swing bowler retired from Test cricket in July 2024, drawing the curtain on an incredible international career that saw him claim 704 wickets across 188 matches.
That total not only cements him as England’s all-time leading wicket-taker, but also as the most successful fast bowler in Test history, ranking behind only spin greats Muttiah Muralitharan and Shane Warne.
The Man Who Redefined Fast Bowling
Anderson’s artistry with the ball changed what it meant to be a fast bowler.
Known for his effortless rhythm, subtle movement through the air, and sheer consistency, he became the benchmark for technical precision in world cricket.
In 2020, he became the first pace bowler ever to reach 600 Test wickets, achieving the feat against Pakistan at the Ageas Bowl — a landmark moment that underscored his extraordinary longevity.
Even now, more than two decades after his debut, Anderson remains deeply connected to the game.
Reports suggest he’s still in talks with Lancashire over a one-year contract extension that could see him play into the 2026 season, beyond his 44th birthday.
A Mentor and Role Model for the Next Generation
Although his England career has ended, Anderson continues to train with Lancashire and serves as a mentor for young bowlers, offering technical advice and guiding them through the finer details of seam bowling.
Teammates often describe him as meticulous and endlessly curious — traits that helped him stay at the top of his game long after most fast bowlers would have retired.
His presence at Old Trafford remains invaluable, both as a teacher and as a quiet leader.
A Career Full of Partnerships, Records, and Ashes Glory
Anderson made his Test debut in 2003 against Zimbabwe at Lord’s, taking five wickets in his very first match.
From there, he never looked back, becoming the anchor of England’s bowling attack for nearly two decades.
His partnership with Stuart Broad became the stuff of cricketing legend.
Together, the pair took over 1,200 Test wickets, leading England to four Ashes series victories — including the unforgettable 2005 and 2015 triumphs — and memorable wins in India, South Africa, and Australia.
Before focusing solely on Test cricket in 2015, Anderson also represented England in 194 one-day internationals and 19 T20 matches, proving his versatility across formats.
A Lancashire Loyalist to the Core
Unlike many modern players, Anderson’s loyalty has never wavered.
He has spent his entire domestic career with Lancashire, his home county, making over 200 appearances since his debut in 2002.
Through every milestone — from his first wicket at Lord’s to his final Test at The Oval — Lancashire has been home, and the club remains proud to call him one of their own.
A Fitting Tribute to an Extraordinary Career
Sir James Anderson’s knighthood feels like the perfect final chapter in a story defined by grace, endurance, and mastery.
From the swinging conditions of English mornings to the scorching heat of Australia, he has conquered every challenge cricket could throw at him.
And while he may no longer wear the England cap, his influence will continue to shape the sport for generations — both on and off the field.