New Zealand star "in awe" of Anderson and Broad as "greats" hit landmark

17 February 2023 , 13:30

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James Anderson and Stuart Broad have equalled a record held by Shane Warne and Glenn McGrath (Image: Philip Brown/Popperfoto/Popperfoto via Getty Images)

James Anderson and Stuart Broad have made yet more history together as they drew level with Australian legends Glenn McGrath and Shane Warne as the most prolific wicket-taking duo in Test match history.

Having ended day one of the first Test against New Zealand in Mount Maunganui with 999 wickets in games together after Anderson dismissed both Kane Williamson and Henry Nicholls in the final session, they equalled McGrath and Warne's haul of 1,001 wickets on day two with one wicket apiece.

Broad ended the stay of nightwatchman Neil Wagner, while Tom Blundell was out caught and bowled to Anderson after scoring a magnificent century. And speaking after the close of play, Blundell admitted he was "in awe" of the duo.

"I'm sort of in awe of them," he told reporters. "These guys are greats of the game and they're bowling at you which is a cool experience.

"It's something that really gets me into the fighting mode and takes me to the next level. It's always nice when you're facing the world's best."

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Before play began, Broad spoke to BT Sport about the record and said it has "been a pleasure" to bowl alongside Anderson for almost 15 years. "Yeah, it's a lot isn't it?" Broad said.

New Zealand centurion Tom Blundell was wicket number 1,001 for Anderson and Broad in Tests where they have played together (Philip Brown/Popperfoto/Popperfoto via Getty Images)

"That's really special and the way Jimmy bowled last night, there's no stopping him into the future as well is there? It was wonderful to be out there at mid-on just seeing the ball nip across the left-handers like he's done for so many years.

"It's been a pleasure to bowl at the other end, be a part of that side and win so many games with him. When we look back at all the wickets we've taken, there's no doubt our favourites come in Test match wins."

And after equalling the record, Broad took to social to celebrate the achievement, responding to a tweet highlighting their remarkable feat. "Pretty cool @jimmy9," he tweeted.

Matthew Cooper