SOUTHAMPTON (UK) – England’s James Anderson became the first seam bowler to take 600 test wickets, but his team had to settle for a draw against Pakistan on the rain-hit final day of the third test at the Rose Bowl on Tuesday.
The visiting side reached 187 for four in their second innings at the close, batting for 27.1 overs, still 123 runs short of England’s massive 583 for eight declared.
His achievement had appeared under threat after rain and a wet outfield prevented the game in the first two sessions. Soon after the start, Anderson picked up the wicket of Pakistan captain Azhar Ali.
After winning the first test in Manchester by three wickets, England claimed the series 1-0. The last two matches in Southampton were both drawn because of bad weather.
In a bid to ensure there was no dramatic collapse in the final session, Pakistan’s Babar Azam struck a 63 not out.
Anderson was both relieved and happy after his historic moment as he further cemented his place as one of test cricket’s greats. He came into the match under pressure amid grapevine that some pundits opined he should retire.
(Photos syndicated via Reuters)
This story has been edited by BH staff and is published from a syndicated field.