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'Best Fast Bowler To...': Nathan Lyon Praises Ashes Rival Anderson Days Ahead Of His Final Test

Anderson set to retire after 1st Test Vs WI [X.com]Anderson set to retire after 1st Test Vs WI [X.com]

Australia’s Nathan Lyon recently praised his longtime rival, James Anderson, calling him the best fast bowler in cricket history, just days before Anderson’s final Test against the West Indies at Lord's.

Anderson has been in the spotlight since announcing that the Lord’s Test against the West Indies would be his last for England. Preparing for his farewell, Anderson warmed up in style with a sensational seven-wicket haul in the County Championship match against Nottinghamshire.

Lyon showers praise on Anderson

Set to earn his 188th and final cap against the West Indies next week, Anderson recorded figures of seven for 35, helping to bowl out Nottinghamshire for 126 and forcing them to follow on in the First Division encounter at Southport.

Lyon, who is playing alongside Anderson for Lancashire in the County Championship, reflected on Anderson’s exceptional performance and lauded his skillset.

"He (Anderson) showed his class. No disrespect to the other bowlers in this game, but you can see the quality of Jimmy and the extra zip he gets off the wicket. I’ve said this before, I’m very surprised that England have decided to move on from him. He’s world-class, probably the best fast bowler to ever play the game, especially in England,”  Nathan Lyon told the Lancashire website.

The 41-year-old Anderson is set for an emotional farewell in the first Test of the home summer against the West Indies, starting next Wednesday, after being informed that England is looking to build for the future.

While England is ready to transition on the field, Anderson’s vast experience from 187 Tests, in which he has taken 700 wickets—a record for non-spinners—will remain invaluable.

After the first Test, Anderson will stay with the team as a bowling mentor, helping to groom the uncapped fast bowlers selected for the West Indies series.