James Anderson's emotional statement before final Test, "My focus is not to cry"

James Anderson made an emotional statement on Monday, July 8, before his final Test match at Lord’s against the West Indies. Anderson will play his last game during the first Test from July 10 to 14.

England legend James Anderson joked that he is focusing on bowling well and winning his final match to avoid crying as he retires from cricket. Anderson will end his legendary career during the first Test between England and West Indies, starting on July 10. Anderson is the pacer with the most wickets in Test cricket and aims to surpass Shane Warne as the second highest wicket taker in the format.

Emotional farewell announcement

"No regrets" – James Anderson reflects on his magnificent career ahead of his final Test match at Lord's 🗣️ #ENGvWI pic.twitter.com/fqvOyFOpNw

— ESPNcricinfo (@ESPNcricinfo) July 8, 2024

“I feel pretty normal going into this last couple of days of training. Try not to think too much about the game itself. The big thing for me this week is to play well, bowl well and get a win. That’s what I am trying to focus on really. I am sure the emotions during the week will change. So that’s what I am trying to focus on to stop myself from crying,” said Anderson.

Anderson said he is proud of his career and is determined to finish on a high note.

Legacy and record in test cricket

Shamar Joseph "James Anderson is such an amazing player.Someone I have looked up to.Someone who is very good at this level,You could say he’s perfect because he has a lot of wickets at this level.I would definitely want to ruin that farewell for him." pic.twitter.com/UzO2YMCPoU

— Sujeet Suman (@sujeetsuman1991) July 8, 2024

“Playing my 188th Test at just short of 42 years old, makes me the most proud and I’m still pushing myself to be the best I possibly can, Even though I’ve got one game left, I’ve still tried to train as hard as I can,” said Anderson.

At a press conference at Lord’s, Anderson said he feels normal heading into his final game and isn’t overthinking the match. He aims to win for his team, knowing emotions will change throughout the week.

“I feel like I’m still bowling as well as I ever have,” he said. “But I knew it had to end at some point, whether it’s now or in a year or two.”

“The fact it’s now is something I’ve got to deal with and accept. The last couple of months I’ve made peace with that.”

“I can’t complain. I don’t have any regrets, I’ve played hundreds of games for England, played with people who are much more talented than me but didn’t get the opportunity because of injury.”

Anderson decided to retire in May and said he has come to peace with it over the past few months. He has no regrets about his decision. After retiring from cricket, Anderson plans to join England’s coaching team.