Last Updated on 4 years by Charbel Coorey
What the world looked like when James Anderson made his Test debut | What the world looked like when Jimmy Anderson made his debut in 2003
This man just doesn’t stop, does he?
James Anderson, at 38 years of age, produced an outstanding spell of bowling to help lead England to an emphatic win in the first Test against India at Chennai. Reverse swing was on offer as the Test progressed on an abrasive surface, but the manner that Anderson delivered with such venom and accuracy has been a hallmark of his career to date.
And what a career it has been. If a batsman plays out 20 years of international cricket, he/she will be (rightfully) praised and applauded. Anderson, a pace bowler made his debut way back in 2003, and has shown no signs of slowing down even after a massive 158 Tests – easily the most of any seamer in history. Incredible stuff that all fans, no matter who you support, should appreciate.
To paint a picture of just how long this man has been around, we take a trip back to the past and have a look at what the world looked like way back in 2003 when Anderson made his Test debut. This is not to make you feel old.
Nokia was the world’s leading mobile phone brand
Nokia (remember them?) were easily the number one player in the mobile phone market back in 2003. While Jimmy Anderson was starting out, Nokia was well-and-truly established, with the Nokia 1100 and 3200 being the world’s leading mobile phones. Snake. Tetris. All of that.
Launch of Apple iTunes
Apple was really starting to build momentum in the technology market. iTunes was launched, before the iPhone in 2007. James Anderson had been a Test cricketer for four years by the launch of the iPhone.
No Facebook (or any major social media)
Back when James Anderson debuted in Test cricket, he and every other Test cricketer just had to avoid the newspapers and television screens if they didn’t want to read any negativity about them. Now, it’s everywhere.
Facebook launched in 2004, YouTube in 2005, followed by Twitter in 2006. By the end 2006, Anderson had 43 Test wickets in an on-and-off Test career at that point. So, his continued growth has been remarkable.
“In Da Club” by 50 Cent was the top song of 2003
Feel old yet?
If your answer is yes, let James Anderson be your inspiration.
George W. Bush was President of the United States
The US Election has been a major topic in recent times (the cricket references are OUTSTANDING). Back in 2003, George W. Bush was President. It really does feel like such a long time ago.
Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King, Finding Nemo and Bad Boys II among the top movies
These classics, as well as others such as Terminator 3, were the most popular movies of 2003. And you had to physically go to the cinema to watch them. No Netflix or anything like that.
Australia won their second-successive World Cup (and third overall)
As an Aussie praising James Anderson, this had to be included. Cheers.
What else can you remember from 2003? It is certainly quite a while ago, but not long enough for James Anderson, who continues to produce the goods at 38.
