Legendary West Indies cricketer Brian Lara has praised James Anderson as the greatest fast bowler in the history of the game ahead of his farewell Test against West Indies. Anderson, who had earlier announced his retirement, revealed that the first Test against West Indies at Lord’s would be the final match of his career.

Ahead of Anderson’s farewell game, Lara commended the veteran seamer, calling his career statistics incredible. He also acknowledged that Anderson has served his nation admirably and accepted the coaching staff's decision with grace.

“He's the greatest fast bowler that ever played the game. I mean, it's just his numbers are incredible. And he's served England well. I know for a fact that, you know, he didn't have that in mind. But I think he's accepted it quite well. And if that's the choice of, you know, the captain or the coach or the selectors, then so be it. He's had a tremendous career. I don't think that he's going to feel slighted by it at all. He's just a tremendous performer. And what can I say? The best in the world,” Lara told Sky Sports.

James Anderson will be finishing his international career with the Lords Test against West Indies.