Alastair Cook(right) hails James Anderson(left) as England's 'greatest' cricketer.
England's greatest Test batsman Alastair Cook, who just retired from international cricket, has hailed fast bowler James Anderson as England's all-time greatest cricketer.
Anderson, who is still at the prime of his bowling, surpassed former Australian great Glenn McGrath to become the most successful fast bowler in Test cricket.
Indian tail-ender Mohammed Shami became Anderson's 564th victim that helped him overtake McGrath during England's fifth Test against India at The Oval, which the hosts won by 118 runs. (Also Read: Glenn McGrath backs James Anderson to breach 600-wicket barrier)
"He's an incredible athlete, an incredible bowler," Cook said after his last Test.
"He is the best cricketer that England has ever produced."
Anderson has also played 49 Tests under the leadership of Cook, who is retiring as England's all-time leading run-scorer in Test cricket.
The gritty fast bowler, who is probably at the business end of his career, is just behind Muttiah Muralitharan, Shane Warne and Anil Kumble in the list of all-time highest Test wicket-takers.
Having enjoyed a memorable end to his Test career, Cook was an emotional man at the end of the final match of the series against India on Tuesday.
Playing in his last Test, Cook scripted a fairytale ending to his career in the longest format by scoring a century in England's second innings and clinching the man of the match award.
In the post-match ceremony, emotional Cook said, "It has been the most amazing week. Got a text from Beefy (Ian Botham) and he said Can I have your scriptwriter? The memories shared with my team. Some very good moments,"
"You miss all the highs. I would miss playing for this team. This week can't be beaten. I can walk away with my head held high," he added.
