MELBOURNE: Legendary Australian fast bowler Glenn McGrath has tipped James Anderson to surpass his tally of 563 Test wickets and become the highest wicket-taker by a paceman in the iconic format.
England paceman Anderson continued to produce rich vein of form as the 33-year-old reached the 450-wicket milestone during the second Test against Sri Lanka. He now requires 112 more wickets to match the Australian’s record.
“That's entirely up to him; if he stays on the park, then he can do that quite easily – and knock me off. And good luck to him,” McGrath was quoted as saying by cricket.com.au.
McGrath insisted that Anderson has the potential to end his career as the fourth highest wicket-taker in Test behind only spin trio Muthiah Muralitharan (800), Shane Warne (708) and Anil Kumble (619) if he remains injury free.
“You have to stay fit and strong, and injury free. He's had a few issues in the past but he's come back well. I was lucky enough to play through 'til I was 37, so I'm sure he's still got plenty of overs left in him," said McGrath.
“He's a quality bowler, there's no doubt about that. When he's firing and the ball's swinging, he's as tough (to face) as any bowler going around.
“He's played 115 Tests now, which for a fast bowler to play over 100 is exceptional. He's still bowling well, and he's still taking wickets,” added the former Australian pacer.