James Anderson says he cannot believe he is still a first choice bowler for the England Test team which is currently preparing for a three-match series in the West Indies.
The Burnley-born 32-year-old needs four more wickets to become the all-time leading wicket-taker for his country, having taken 380 in 99 Tests.
Ian Botham, who retired 23 years ago, leads the way for England on 383 and will always be remembered for his historic series against Australia in 1981 which have become commonly known as ‘Botham’s Ashes.’
Anderson made his Test debut in 2003, but has only become England’s leading swing bowler in the last seven years.
Looking ahead to what could become a milestone series for the Lancastrian, Anderson said: "I can't quite believe I've got this far.
"As a bowler I'd be absolutely delighted if I get four wickets in the Test, but I'm not thinking about that.
"One hundred per cent you've got to ignore it. It'll be a special occasion for me on the morning of the game (his 100th Test) but from a team point of view we've had an awful winter.
"We need to get back to winning ways, so we need to start this series well and that's all the build-up has been about.
"I've prepared for this like it was any other Test and so have the other guys.
"We're trying to win a game of cricket and we have to concentrate on that."
But Anderson admits it has not been a straightforward journey, saying: "It's been hard. It's not been ridiculously easy, that's for sure.
"I got off to a good start in my career but then had dodgy form and injuries.
"I had a few years where I was out of the side and didn't know if I'd ever play again. There have obviously been low periods.
"But having experienced Test cricket and seen how amazing it is to play for England, that determination to play again has driven me on.
"I've never forgotten the sitting on the sidelines for 18 months or two years not being able to be out there doing what I love.
"At 32 people keep asking me when I'm going to retire but I'm delighted to have got here and I still feel I've got plenty more to give."
As for Botham, he went on: "I was born in 1982 but my Dad had the '81 Ashes video and growing up I had that on all the time.
"He's a legend of the game and a legend of English cricket. For me to have the opportunity to go past him is a dream come true.”
Watch the first Test on Sky Sports 2 HD, starting on Monday, April 13