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Xtra Time Web Desk: In a surprising twist during England's first innings, the West Indies team missed the opportunity to give James Anderson a guard of honour as he walked out to bat, likely for the last time in his illustrious career. Anderson, who is set to retire after the conclusion of the 1st Test match between England and West Indies at Lord's Cricket Ground, found himself stepping onto the field amidst unexpected circumstances.

The moment of tribute was thwarted when the West Indies team became engrossed in celebrating a spectacular direct hit that resulted in a runout. The runout, initiated by Mikyle Louis, saw Shoaib Bashir heading back to the pavilion, and the West Indies players erupted in jubilation, momentarily forgetting their planned gesture for Anderson.

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As per tradition, a guard of honour is formed by the fielding team to acknowledge and pay respect to a distinguished player making their final appearance. However, in the excitement of the moment, the West Indies players missed their chance to honour Anderson. Despite this, former West Indies captain Jason Holder managed to greet Anderson with a handshake as he entered the field.

A well-earned applause for one of England's finest, @jimmy9, as he came out to bat ???? #SonySportsNetwork #ENGvWI #JamesAnderson pic.twitter.com/l8mpRzgbDy

— Sony Sports Network (@SonySportsNetwk) July 11, 2024

Reflecting on the missed moment, West Indies bowler Jayden Seales remarked, "We spoke about it, but the run-out took us all the way down to Swiss Cottage so it was pretty hard to do a guard of honour for the great man - thankfully Jason caught up with him."

Adding to the anticlimax, Anderson couldn't replicate Stuart Broad's memorable feat of hitting a six off his final delivery in Tests. Instead, Anderson didn't face a single ball, as Jamie Smith was caught in the deep, marking the end of England's innings.

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"It's a bit disappointing I couldn't hit one more six to allow him his moment," Smith admitted. "That's the one thing I regret about that innings, I think."

Thus, what was expected to be a ceremonious send-off for one of cricket's legends turned into a bittersweet memory, marked by a brilliant runout and a missed guard of honour. As Anderson's final Test nears its end, fans and players alike reflect on the illustrious career of one of cricket's most celebrated bowlers.