James Anderson set to play T20s after more than 10 years

One of the greatest Test seamers of all time, England’s James Anderson, has signed a one-year contract to continue his playing career with Lancashire ahead of the 2025 season, the club confirmed on January 13 (Monday). 

The right-arm paceman retired from international cricket in July 2024 after the first Test against West Indies at Lord's. He has not played any professional cricket since then, taking up a bowling consultant role for the senior Men’s side.

Anderson’s most recent first-class appearance for Lancashire came in June against Nottinghamshire, while he will also be making his first T20 appearance since 2014.

Talking about his deal, the 42-year-old 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.”

Meanwhile, Director of Cricket Performance Mark Chilton added: “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.”

England’s next Test assignment is on May 22 against Zimbabwe, a four-day Test at home, so even if Anderson were to link up with the squad as part of the coaching team, he’d be able to play as many as five championship matches for Lancashire. 

Despite retiring from international cricket, Anderson’s drive to play cricket professionally has not died down. He recently put his name up in the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) auction. Though the 42-year-old went unsold, it was a big sign of intent.