West Indies legend Brian Lara has described England bowler James Anderson as the greatest fast bowler in cricket history. Lara praised Anderson's achievements and called him one of the most respected cricketers in the world.

41-year-old Anderson will retire from international cricket after the first Test against the West Indies at Lord's from July 10.

Speaking to Sky Sports, Lara said, “He (Anderson) is the greatest fast bowler to have played cricket. His stats are fantastic and he has done a lot for England. I know he doesn't have that thing (retirement from cricket) in his mind, but I think he has accepted it. If his captain, coach and selectors think so, then it will happen. He has had a great career for England.”

Lara further said, “He has taken the most wickets in Test cricket as a fast bowler and his career spanned more than 23 years. I think only Courtney Walsh is close to him in terms of playing for so many years, but his legacy is going to be huge. I think he has earned the respect of the world as an England cricketer.”

Let us tell you that Anderson has created a sensation with his brilliant bowling before the last Test match of his career. He took 7 wickets while playing for Lancashire in the county match against Nottinghamshire. This is the 55th time that Anderson has taken 5 or more wickets in an innings in first class cricket.

Anderson needs 9 wickets to surpass Shane Warne to become the second highest wicket-taker in Test cricket. Warne has 708 wickets in this format.