James Anderson's debut in International cricket

England’s James Anderson made his debut against Australia in December 2002. Anderson was brought on as a fast bowler into the England squad, and opened the bowling alongside James Kirtley, another England right-hand fast bowler. In a day-night match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, Anderson found himself up against the likes of Australia’s wicket-keeper Adam Gilchrist, and skipper Ricky Ponting. After losing opener Matthew Hayden early, Gilchrist and Ponting took the attack to the English bowlers, smashing an incredible 225 runs in the next 34 overs of the Australian innings. Gilchrist in particular was severe in his attack, smashing 12 fours and 4 sixes en-route to a blazing century. Anderson had Gilchrist bowled off the first ball of the 37th over, to finally bring an end to the towering 200+ run partnership.

Inspite of bagging the prized wicket of Gilchrirst, Anderson turned out to be the most expensive bowler in the England innings, going at over 7.55 runs/over off his 6 overs. England never got going in their chase of 318, and were eventually bowled out for 229 in 48 overs. Anderson made just six runs, coming in to bat at number 10.

The following year, Zimbabwe toured England for two Test matches in late May. Anderson got his Test match career off to a brilliant start, picking up 5 wickets for 73 runs in the Zimbabwe first innings. They were bowled out for just 147 to help set-up a comfortable innings and 92-run victory for England. He is currently the second highest wicket taker for his country in Test Cricket.