# 3. James Anderson (688*)
The highest wicket-taker in Tests that is currently active, James Anderson, unbelievably, seems to be getting better with age. Nearing his 41st birthday, Anderson’s England career has lasted over half of his life span, and the finish line is nowhere in sight.
A modern master of the art of swing and seam, with proficiency in reverse swing as well, he has firmly established himself as England’s most successful Test bowler, and perhaps the most complete one as well. Anderson has played 185 (and counting) Tests for his country, racking up 696 (and counting) wickets, with 700 firmly in his sights. Furthermore, instead of slowing down towards the end of his career, the veteran pacer seems more sprightly than ever, rarely missing a Test match for England. And, if that wasn’t enough, his batting in the red-ball format has also improved with time, and he now makes the off notable contribution with the bat in hand as well.
