England pace legend James Anderson honoured with Knighthood in Windsor Castle ceremony

James Anderson announced his retirement from international cricket in July 2024.

Former England pacer James Anderson is now officially ‘Sir James Anderson’ as he received his Knighthood during an official ceremony at the Windsor Castle in United Kingdom (UK) on Wednesday, October 29. The right-arm pacer, who announced his retirement from international cricket last year, was honoured with Knighthood by British Princess Anne.

The 43-year-old cricketer was named in former British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s resignation honours list in April for his services to England Cricket Team. Anderson ended his career as the all-time leading wicket-taker for England, representing the country for 22 long years from 2002 to 2024.

With 991 wickets across formats, Anderson finished his career as the third highest wicket-taker in international cricket after former Sri Lanka spinner Muttiah Muralitharan (1347) and late Australian spin legend Shane Warne (1001).

James Anderson retired as the second-most capped test player

In the latter part of his career, Anderson was only active in test cricket and retired with 704 scalps in 188 games at an average of 26.45. He finished as the third-highest wicket taker in test cricket behind Muralitharan (800) and Warne (708). Representing England in 188 tests, he is the second-most capped player after Sachin Tendulkar in test cricket (200 tests).

In July 2024, Anderson played his last test against the West Indies at The Lord’s, which was the first game of the three-match series. He clinched four wickets in the encounter, which England won with ease. Post his retirement, he has continued to play for his domestic county Lancashire. He also represented Manchester Originals in England’s franchise tournament, The Hundred 2025, making a return to the shortest format after a decade-long gap.

Meanwhile, Alastair Cook, Ian Botham, Alec Bedser, and Colin Cowdrey are a few former England players who have received Knighthood in the past for their services to cricket. Among non-English players, Don Bradman, Richard Hadlee, Clive Lloyd, Viv Richards, Garfield Sobers, and Curtly Ambrose are some notable names who received the Knighthood.

For more updates, follow Khel Now Cricket on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube; download the Khel Now Android App or IOS App and join our community on Whatsapp & Telegram.