Roach expressed deep admiration for Anderson following the England pacer’s decision to retire after the first Test against West Indies at Lord’s in July
James Anderson officially announced his decision to retire from international cricket on Sunday, 12 May, stating the first Test against West Indies on 10 July at Lord’s would be his farewell.
Anderson will call time on an international career that has lasted close to 22 years, having made his England debut in 2002.
The veteran pacer will head into his swansong with a mind-boggling 700 Test wickets, having played 187 matches through a storied career. He stands third in the list for most Test wickets, and will be hopeful of overtaking the late, great Shane Warne, who claimed 708 Test scalps.
Kemar Roach, who is expected to feature in the West Indies lineup for Anderson’s farewell match, lauded the English stalwart as ‘one of the greatest’ pacers in cricket history.
“He’s a great fast bowler, probably one of the greatest,” Roach said at the Kia Oval where he is currently representing Surrey at the County Championship.
“It’s sad to see him go, but we all know you can’t play forever. He’s done fantastically for England and he deserves whatever he gets.
“First Test match against us… hopefully, we ruin it,” Roach said jokingly. “He’s highly respected. He’s always given me great advice as well. He will go down as one of the greatest to ever do it. I wish him all the best after that Test match, and hopefully, he enjoys whatever comes next.”
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