Photo Credit: Lancashire Cricket
Lancashire Cricket is delighted to confirm that James Anderson has signed a one-year contract to continue his playing career with the Club ahead of the 2025 season.
Anderson – who made his debut for the Red Rose in 2001 – has committed to playing for Lancashire in both the Rothesay County Championship and Vitality Blast competitions during the new season.
The 42-year-old hasn’t played a competitive match since his 188th – and final – Test appearance against West Indies in July, as England’s all-time leading wicket-taker retired from international cricket.
Following discussions with the Club, Anderson will play on during the 2025 season and has put pen-to-paper on an initial season-long deal following the end of his ECB central contract.
Anderson’s most recent First-Class appearance for Lancashire came in June when he took 7 for 35 against Nottinghamshire in Southport while he will be set to make his first T20 appearance since 2014 this summer.
Speaking about the news, James Anderson said: “I am incredibly excited to sign this contract with Lancashire and resume playing professional cricket again next season.
“This Club has played a huge part in my life since I was a teenager, so to have the opportunity to wear the Red Rose again and help the side in both red and white ball cricket is one that I am really looking forward to.
“I have been working hard on keeping my fitness levels high and continuing to bowl regularly during my time as a coach with England throughout the winter, with the aim of being able to hit the ground running when the county season starts in April.
“I love playing at Emirates Old Trafford and to have the chance to walk out and bowl in front of our Members and supporters again this summer is going to be really special.”
Director of Cricket Performance Mark Chilton also commented: “We have been in open dialogue with Jimmy since his international retirement and our position has been clear from the start. It is fantastic news for all connected with the Club that he has chosen to continue his playing career with Lancashire.
“From speaking to Jimmy recently, it became clear that his desire to resume playing professional cricket was strengthening every day and he was just desperate to get back out on the park. As it stands, he is fully committed to the county season across both the County Championship and Vitality Blast this summer, and whilst we all recognise he will have other opportunities, he has made it clear playing is his first priority.
“To be able to share a dressing room with England’s all-time leading wicket taker, and one of cricket’s greatest players, is incredible for our squad and I’ve no doubt that our Members and supporters, and cricket fans around the world, will be equally as thrilled to watch Jimmy in action for Lancashire again next summer.”
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Name of Author: Lancashire Cricket
Lancashire Cricket Club represents the historic county of Lancashire in English cricket. Founded in 1864, the club has held first-class status and is based at Old Trafford Cricket Ground. The club’s limited overs team is known as Lancashire Lightning.
