James Anderson gave the strongest hint yet that he is actively planning for one last crack at the Ashes next winter, promising that his historic 600th Test wicket is a stepping stone rather than the end of the road.

Anderson’s big moment was delayed by dropped catches and rain in England’s final Test of the summer but he eventually brought up his latest memorable milestone at 4.36pm on day five of their draw against Pakistan.

A glimmer of swing, a touch of extra bounce and a sound catch from Joe Root was enough to add Azhar Ali’s name to a long list.

The appreciation was mutual from his skipper, with Root fulsome in his praise.

“There’s no one that can touch him really, he’s that far ahead of everyone else in my opinion,” he said.

“It’s incredible what he’s done so far in the game and he’s much more than just the wickets that you see on the field. He’s a brilliant senior player, adds a lot to the dressing room and with the young bowlers as well – you couldn’t ask for a better role model and someone to learn off. He’s a credit to our country.”