Gus Atkinson took that last wicket and he actually apologised to Jimmy Anderson: Ben Stokes

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James Anderson hung up his boots after an innings and 114 runs win over West Indies in the first Test of the series at Lord’s. The legendary pacer picked up three wickets in the second innings and was on the verge of another one but he failed to grab that. Soon after that, debutant Gus Atkinson sent Jayden Seales packing, which ended Anderson’s international career.

As per England captain Ben Stokes, Atkinson apologised to Anderson after the dismissal as the latter was trying hard to pick up a wicket and bid farewell to international cricket. However, Stokes added that the 41-year-old was laughing and gave credit to Atkinson and was happy to put over a young cricketer in his final farewell match.

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“Gus took that last wicket and he actually apologised to Jimmy and Jimmy just laughed at him and just went ‘no, mate’. You know someone who deserved their fairytale ending like Broady (Stuart Broad) got, to put a young teammate first, I think that says a lot about Jimmy Anderson the person,” Stokes said while talking to BBC Cricket.

Atkinson meanwhile had a terrific debut with the ball. The 26-year-old picked up 12 wickets and was adjudged Player of the Match.

I’m gonna stick around for the rest of the summer with these guys: Anderson

Anderson also confirmed that he will stick with the England team for the rest of the summer. ECB Director of Cricket Rob Key offered him the role of a mentor but the pacer is yet to sign the papers. He still hasn’t decided on the future and will see how things pan out.

Also Read – James Anderson fights back tears amid standing ovation from fans at Lord’s long room

“I have not really thought that far ahead. I’m gonna stick around for the rest of the summer with these guys, try and help the bowling group out as much as I can and we will see where life takes us after that. I have not looked that far ahead,” Anderson said.