Twenty years after his Test début, James Anderson reflects on his career: “It was very difficult cricket.”

James Anderson, an experienced pacer for England, reflected on his 20 years in professional cricket since making his Test debut. Notably, the 40-year-old made his debut in the longest format against Zimbabwe on May 22, 2003, at the iconic Lord’s Ground. Notably, the field is regarded as the “Home of Cricket.”

Since his formative years, the veteran pacer has established himself as arguably one of the best bowlers in contemporary cricket. Twenty years after making his debut, Anderson reflected on his early days in Burnley, which helped him achieve international cricket distinction.

“In cricket, I would have attempted to bowl against the garage door like Darren Gough. I was always attempting to imitate or impersonate others. The cricket (at Burnley Cricket Club) was extremely difficult. When I bowled five wides in the first over of one of my first games, I thought, “This will never end.” At age 15, I quickly realized that nerves are advantageous. They brought out the best in me. This served me well,” Anderson told BBC Sport.

In his 179 Test appearances, Anderson has accumulated 685 wickets. In addition, he has 269 ODI wickets and 18 T20I wickets in 194 ODIs and 19 T20Is, respectively.

I feel grateful and fortunate for the career I’ve had. James Anderson

In addition, the veteran pacer recalled that he had made an enduring impression for Lancashire’s second team against the Northants’ second team in May 2002, when he took 8/54. He added that he was fortunate to have had the type of career that he has without too many injuries.

“When I took eight wickets, Neil Fairbrother, who was playing for Lancashire‘s second team, suggested I be promoted to the first team. I was sent to the England Academy in Australia, and when all of the fast bowlers became injured, I was in the right place at the right moment,” he continued.

“I cannot believe I am still performing these actions. I consider myself privileged and blessed to have had the career I have. “I’ve been fortunate not to have sustained too many injuries,” concluded Anderson.