England’s legendary fast bowler james anderson He was officially knighted during a prestigious ceremony at Windsor Castle on Tuesday, October 28. The 43-year-old fast bowler received the honor from Princess Anne, Princess Royal for his remarkable contribution to the game over a remarkable career spanning 22 years.
During the investiture ceremony, Anderson was joined by his wife Daniela and their two daughters, Lola and Ruby. The event celebrated not only his cricketing milestones but also his personal journey, from his Test debut at Lord’s in 2003 to concluding his historic career at the same ground two decades later.
Achievements of James Anderson in International Cricket
James Anderson, who retired from Test cricket at Lord’s in July 2024, finished his international career as England’s all-time leading wicket-taker with 704 Test wickets in 188 matches. This makes him the most successful fast bowler in Test history, behind only spin legend Muttiah Muralitharan (800 wickets). shane warne (708 wickets) in the overall list. Despite playing his last white-ball game in 2015, Anderson also holds the England record for most wickets in One Day Internationals (269).
Knighthood: A fitting tribute to England’s cricketers
The knighthood awarded to Anderson is one of the highest civilian honors in Britain, celebrating his extraordinary achievements and services to cricket. He was named in former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s Resignation Honors List in early 2025, becoming the only player to receive the recognition. Sir James Anderson has joined an elite group of cricket icons, including Sir Ian Botham, Sir Geoffrey Boycott, Sir Alistair Cook and Sir Andrew Strauss.
The honor not only recognizes his statistical milestones, but also acknowledges his contribution as a mentor, leader and ambassador of the game, who inspired countless cricketers with his professionalism and passion.
Also read: James Anderson has picked the two fastest bowlers he has seen in world cricket
Complete list of England cricketers who have received knighthoods
| Name | year of knighthood |
|---|---|
| Francis Lacey | 1926 |
| frederick toon | 1929 |
| pelham warner | 1937 |
| John Hobbs | 1953 |
| Henry Leveson Gower | 1953 |
| leonard hutton | 1956 |
| neville cards | 1967 |
| gabby allen | 1986 |
| Colin Cowdrey | 1992 |
| Alec Bedser | 1996 |
| ian botham | 2007 |
| alistair cook | 2019 |
| Geoffrey Boycott | 2019 |
| Andrew Strauss | 2019 |
| james anderson | 2025 |
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