Legendary England bowler James Anderson is set to return to T20 cricket after an 11-year hiatus as he signed a one-year deal with Lancashire. The 42-year-old pacer has expressed his desire to continue playing at the domestic level despite retiring from international cricket in mid-2024.
Anderson retired from international cricket as England's all-time Test wicket-taker, with his last Test against the West Indies at Lord's. He took 704 wickets in 188 Tests at an average of 26.45, including 32 five-wicket hauls. After retirement, he joined England's coaching staff as a consultant.
Incredibly excited to sign this contract with Lancashire – James Anderson
James Anderson has signed a contract with Lancashire to play in the County Championship and T20 Blast following the expiry of his central ECB contract. The 42-year-old is excited to return to professional cricket, adding that he is looking forward to playing for the club again and helping out in red and white ball cricket.
“I am incredibly excited to sign this contract with Lancashire and resume playing professional cricket next season,” said Anderson. “This club has played a big part in my life since I was a teenager, so I'm really looking forward to the opportunity to wear the red rose again and help out the red and white ball cricket team.
This summer is going to be really special – James Anderson
James Anderson said he focused on staying fit and bowling regularly during his coaching role with England over the winter. The pacer said his aim is to be in top form for the start of the county season in April. He called it special to play at Emirates Old Trafford.
“I have worked hard to keep my fitness levels high and have continued to play regularly during my time as England coach throughout the winter with the aim of being able to hit the ground running when the county season starts in April ”, Anderson. added.
“I love playing at Emirates Old Trafford and to get the chance to go out and play in front of our members and supporters again this summer will be really special.”
James Anderson is currently in Abu Dhabi with the England Fast Bowlers
James Anderson, after going unsold in the 2025 IPL auction, is focusing on his return to County cricket with Lancashire for the 2025 season. He has hinted that he is prioritizing his playing role over mentoring the England bowlers.
Anderson, who made his debut for Lancashire in 2001, will return to the County Championship and Vitality Blast competitions. Lancashire will begin their Division Two campaign on April 4 against Middlesex at Lord's, the venue where Anderson played his last Test.
Anderson is in Abu Dhabi with England's fast bowlers as they prepare for the white-ball tour of India. On his Tailenders podcast, he confirmed that he will be part of England's coaching staff for the Champions Trophy 2025. However, his position as bowling coach for the summer remains uncertain.