James Anderson on cusp of breaking Anil Kumble’s record

England’s experienced fast bowler James Anderson is on the cusp of breaking Anil Kumble’s record. Anderson has scalped 616 wickets in his glorious career of 161 Test matches at an impressive average of 26.58.

On the other hand, Anil Kumble is the third highest wicket-taker in Test format with 619 scalps.

Thus, Anderson is only four wickets away from overtaking Kumble’s record, which he will look to get in the ongoing second Test match against New Zealand. Muttiah Muralitharan (800) and Shane Warne (708) are the top two wicket-takers in Test history.

Anderson had earlier gone past Glenn McGrath’s tally of 563 wickets in Test matches to become the highest wicket-taker as a fast bowler.

Furthermore, James Anderson has become the most capped Test player for England and surpassed former skipper Alastair Cook’s record.

Cook had played 161 Test matches for England in his glorious career whereas Anderson is playing his 162nd Test match for the Three Lions. Anderson has remained fit as a fiddle which has helped him play for a long time.

“I can’t believe I have got this far,” Anderson told BBC Sport. “It’s been an amazing journey.” Anderson added: “I’m lucky that I have got a body that can cope with the rigours of bowling.

“I do work hard at my fitness and my skills. It also has the hunger to turn up every day to try to get better. That is all I’ve done since I became a professional and that will hopefully continue for a few more years yet.”

James Anderson has been a champion bowler over the years for England and he has done a fine job for his team. Anderson is well known to swing the ball both ways and he has delivered the goods in the favourable English conditions.