James Anderson became the most successful fast bowler in Test history when he sealed England's 118-run win over India at the Oval on Tuesday.
But a sixth-wicket partnership of 204 between KL Rahul (149) and Rishabh Pant (114) on Tuesday gave them hope of an unlikely victory.
"I’m happy Cookie was on the field to see that wicket," an emotional Anderson told Sky Sports. "He is my best mate and he's been brilliant -- there for me all the time."
As for his record-breaking strike, Anderson added: "Thankfully Joe (Root, the England captain) let me take the new ball eventually which gave me a chance to get that wicket."
"To see Jimmy pass Glenn McGrath today was (great)."
India captain Virat Kohli, who tried to lead from the front with 593 runs this series, praised the fight shown by Tuesday's century-makers.
"Credit must go to Pant and Rahul for standing up," he said. "They showed the character we have in the team and the kind of cricket we played in the series."
India resumed Tuesday on 58 for three. Rahul was 46 not out and Ajinkya Rahane unbeaten on 10.
All eyes were on Anderson as he bowled Tuesday's first over, with the overcast conditions seemingly in his favour.
Rahul though clipped his sixth delivery of the day legside for four to complete a fifty -- the first by an India opening batsman this series.
England started Tuesday in a commanding position after hundreds from Cook and Root (125) took them to 423 for eight declared in their second innings.AFP.