London, July 13: As England great James Anderson ended his over two-decade long career on Friday, legendary Sachin Tendulkar paid a handsome tribute to his ‘old foe’, saying it was a “joy to watch” him bowl.The 41-year-old Anderson walked away with impressive numbers of 704 wickets from 188 Tests with 32 five-wicket hauls after England defeated the West Indies by an innings 114 runs at Lord’s.
“Hey Jimmy! You’ve bowled the fans over with that incredible 22-year spell. Here’s a little wish as you bid goodbye,” Tendulkar wrote on his ‘X’ account.
“It has been a joy to watch you bowl – with that action, speed, accuracy, swing and fitness. You’ve inspired generations with your game,” he added.
Tendulkar, who retired in 2013, wished Anderson to have a wonderful time with his family away from the rushes of professional cricket.
“Wish you a wonderful life ahead with good health and happiness as you put those new shoes on for the most important spell of your life – the time with family,” wrote Tendulkar.
The respect was mutual was Anderson had termed the Indian batting maestro as the “best bowler” he bowled against in his career.
“The best batter I would have to say is Sachin Tendulkar. I don’t remember having a specific game plan against Sachin Tendulkar. Once he came on, I would just think that I cannot bowl a bad ball here, he was that kind of player.
“He was a key for India as well. If you get him out in India, the whole atmosphere, in the ground changes. He was such a big wicket,” Anderson had told Sky Sports.
The Lancastrian claimed 149 wickets in 39 Tests against India with six fifers, while Tendulkar amassed 2,535 runs in 32 Tests against England at 51.73 with seven centuries and 13 fifties.