James Anderson hones in on next record

During the second day of the Boxing Day Test against Australia, the Burnley Express passed two impressive milestones.

While England’s Ashes series has been miserable, with Alastair Cook’s men slumping to a 4-0 deficit ahead of the fifth and final Test in Sydney in the New Year, Anderson was able to celebrate a more personal achievement.

A top edge from David Warner to wicket-keeper Jonny Bairstow at Melbourne Cricket Ground in the seventh over of Australia’s first innings saw the 31-year-old pass 600 first class wickets and 600 international wickets in an England shirt.

After bowling Michael Clarke, having George Bailey caught behind following a review and forcing the exit of Brad Haddin, the former Burnley Cricket Club youngster totaled 340 wickets from 91 Tests. The next landmark will be to pass Sir Ian Botham’s Test record of 383 wickets.