Jimmy Anderson has confirmed that the first Test against West Indies this summer will be his last for England.

Reports on Friday claimed that Brendon McCullum had flown to the UK to hold crunch talks with the Burnley-born bowler about his future.

Anderson has now shared a classy message on social media saying “the time is right so step aside and let others realise their dreams”.

He wrote: “Hi everyone. Just a note to say that the first Test of the summer at Lord’s will be my last Test.

“It’s been an incredible 20 years representing my country, playing the game I’ve loved since I was a kid.

“I’m going to miss walking out for England so much. But I know the time is right to step aside and let others realise their dreams just like I got to, because there is no greater feeling.

“I couldn’t have done it without the love and support of Daniella, Lola, Ruby and my parents. A huge thank you to them. Also, thank you to the players and coaches who have made this the best job in the world.

“I’m excited for the new challenges that lie ahead, as well as filling my days with even more golf.”

Anderson’s longevity has caused amazement among his peers and his 187 Test appearances is an England record – only Sachin Tendulkar, with 200 for India, has more.

Stuart Broad, with 167, is his closest bowling challenger although his long-time new-ball partner departed the scene in fairytale fashion last summer, taking the last of his 604 Test wickets with his final ball to help England claim a 2-2 draw in a thrilling Ashes series.

Anderson played in 194 ODIs and 19 T20s before his international white-ball career ended in 2015 – the same year he overtook Sir Ian Botham’s 383 dismissals to become England’s record Test wicket-taker.

Three and a half years later, Anderson overhauled Glenn McGrath’s 563 victims to become the most prolific fast bowler of all time.