Former England fast bowler Sir James Anderson has been awarded a knighthood in 2024 Prime Minister’s Resignation Honours list submitted by outgoing Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. He is only sportsperson to feature on list, recognizing his outstanding contributions to cricket over a 21‑year international career.
Key Highlights
Knighthood Announcement:
- Named in Rishi Sunak’s Resignation Honours.It is a special list of peerages and honours granted at Prime Minister’s request upon leaving office.
England’s All‑Time Leading Test Wicket‑Taker:
- 704 Test wickets, surpassing Ian Botham’s long‑standing record.
International Career:
- Test debut: 2003 at Lord’s; retired July 2024 after his 188th Test.
- Total international wickets: 991 across Tests, ODIs, and T20Is.
Continued County Season:
- Signed a one‑year contract with Lancashire for 2025 season.
- Currently recovering from a calf injury that delayed the start of the County Championship.
About Prime Minister’s Resignation Honours
- Purpose: Allows an outgoing UK Prime Minister to recommend individuals for peerages, knighthoods/damehoods, and other honours.
- Process: Recommendations are vetted and then conferred by the Monarch, reflecting the Prime Minister’s final public acknowledgments.
About Knighthood in British Honours System
- Rank & Title: Recipients of a Knight Bachelor or KBE (Knight Commander of the Order of the British Empire) earn the title “Sir” before their name.
- Criteria: Awarded for exceptional service in any field, including arts, science, charity, and public service.
- Ceremony: Investiture is conducted by the Monarch or royal representative, where the honoree is dubbed with a sword or inscribed at Buckingham Palace or Windsor Castle.