Sir Ian Botham has backed James Anderson to become the first England bowler to reach 500 Test wickets before the end of his international career.

The 32-year-old, who recently passed Botham's record to become England's record wicket-taker in the longest form of the game, became just the eighth bowler to pass the 400 mark earlier today in the second Test against New Zealand.

The former captain told Sky Sports News: "I enjoy watching him bowl and you can't give anyone more praise than that. I would cross the road to watch him bowl on my day off.

"He is magnificent, a true artist and a terrific athlete, and 500 wickets is definitely within his sights."

Anderson is currently playing in his 104th Test for England.