James Anderson takes 600th Test wicket to become first Englishman and only fourth player EVER to reach incredible total

PETER PAN paceman James Anderson notched an historic 600th Test wicket for England as the world's fourth most successful bowler EVER returned to his best against Pakistan.

The Lancashire seamer, 38, had tourists' skipper Azhar Ali caught at slip by skipper Joe Root to reach the fantastic figure on the final day of what seems an inevitable Third Test draw at Southampton's Ageas Bowl.

Anderson trails only three overseas' leg-spinners in the all-time list – 800-wicket Sri Lankan Muttiah Muralitharan, Aussie legend Shane Warne's 708 and the 619 of India's Anil Kumble.

And after voicing his frustration at his own Second Test performance, Anderson bounced back here with 5-65 in the first innings, before Azhar became his significant second victim when Pakistan followed on.

With England having declared on 583-8, Pakistan were all out for 273 in their opening knock.

But England's victory hopes in the last two days have been severely dented by regular spells of rain.

'RIDICULOUS ACHIEVEMENT'

Lancashire coach Glen Chapple hailed Anderson for reaching his magical mark.

He told the BBC: “I’m not sure there is any context for an achievement like Jimmy’s. It’s ridiculous, really, 600 Test wickets in 18 seasons.

“He’s got an amazing talent, but it’s the work ethic, dedication and discipline he’s shown to stay at the top for so long.

"He constantly strives to get better, he’s come back from injury, and he’s never really taken a backward step.

“Obviously he deserves massive credit. But, as a fellow professional and a coach, it’s great to see someone put in that amount of effort.

"It’s brilliant to watch his skills, his determination, his belief and his competitiveness on the field."

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