James Anderson is said to be in discussions with Lancashire about a return to the pitch this summer. If talks go through, Anderson could return to playing county championship cricket for the club he first joined as a teenager.
Watching a return to action
Anderson has not played a competitive match since his farewell Test against the West Indies at Lord's last July. But according to reports, the veteran pacer has been keeping fit by bowling in the nets during his coaching stints with England Test team. He also worked closely with the team's strength and conditioning staff on the recent tours to Pakistan and New Zealand.
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Now, Anderson feels ready to get back on the pitch and is eager to play for Lancashire when the county championship season begins in April. It's a chance for him to say goodbye on his own terms — or maybe even move on if his body holds up.
A farewell season or more?
If Anderson returns, it could be a farewell season with Lancashire. But his relatives suggest that if things go well, he could stay a little longer. After all, cricket has been a big part of his life for over two decades.
During his England career, Anderson took 704 Test wickets, making him the third highest wicket taker in Test history. His sudden retirement from international cricket last year left many fans disappointed. But it looks like Anderson isn't ready to quit the game just yet.
Mixing play with exercise
If Anderson returns to the game, he will have to juggle his duties as bowling coach with England's Test team and his media commitments. But given his experience, that shouldn't be a problem.
Interestingly, Anderson had signaled his intention to continue playing earlier this year when he appeared for IPL auction. However, he remained unsold, likely because he has not played T20 cricket since 2014.
Why do Lancashire need James Anderson?
Lancashire were relegated from Division One last season. The team will be looking to bounce back and reclaim their place at the top level. Therefore, having England's greatest goalkeeper in their line-up would be a huge boost.
Lancashire's season opener is set for April 4 at Lord's, the same iconic ground where James Anderson played his last Test for England.
And if that wasn't enough of a milestone, Lancashire's first home game at Old Trafford will follow just a week later. It's a place Anderson knows like the back of his hand – a familiar stage where he's delivered countless memorable spells.
What it means for county cricket
If Anderson returns, it is great news for County Championship cricket. Budding batsmen across the country will get a chance to take on one of the greatest fast bowlers of all time. It also adds some star power to the domestic game, which can only help raise its profile.
Lancashire will have to pay Anderson's wages as he is no longer centrally contracted to the ECB. But you'd imagine they wouldn't hesitate to bring back a club legend who could still make an impact.
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