James Anderson confidently envisions himself continuing to play for potentially another three years. However, a recent calf twinge will sadly keep this veteran fast bowler on the sidelines for the first month of the upcoming county season.
After wrapping up his illustrious record-breaking career with England last July, Anderson signed a one-year contract to once again represent Lancashire in both the Rothesay County Championship and the Vitality Blast.
Despite being 42 years old, Anderson’s eagerly anticipated return has been postponed due to an issue with his right calf. This injury first cropped up six years ago and severely impacted his participation in the 2019 Ashes series. As a result, he won’t be in the lineup for the Division Two opening match against Middlesex this week, nor the games against Northamptonshire and Leicestershire scheduled for this month.
Fans can tentatively expect Anderson back on the field on May 2, when Lancashire faces Gloucestershire. In the meantime, he remained unsold at both the Indian Premier League auction and The Hundred draft. However, Anderson isn’t placing any firm bets on the duration of his career; he’s taking it one season at a time as he gears up for his 24th professional season.
When asked about his future, Anderson stated, “I’m not closing the door on playing for another year or two, or maybe even three,” after he had a minor injury while with Lancashire in Spain for pre-season. “It might take me just a month to decide it’s time, or I might have a fantastic season, and the club might want me back for another shot next year.”
Anderson’s affection for Lancashire is palpable, “This club has been my second home, playing such an integral role at the start and throughout my career. It feels right to give back to them this season, and who knows, maybe even longer.”
Up until recently, Anderson was itching to return to action. “Bowling is my passion, and I’m excited about the possibility of a full season of county cricket,” he added. Despite his international retirement suggested by England captain Ben Stokes and head coach Brendon McCullum, Anderson’s impressive record as the most successful seamer in Test history remains untarnished, boasting 704 wickets.
Post-retirement, Anderson has been sharing his expertise as England’s fast bowling coach. He briefly mentioned, “The end of my international career isn’t something I linger on.”
Though working with England remains a possibility, Anderson is clear about where his focus lies. “Lancashire is my main priority right now,” he insists, making it clear that while the chapter with England may be over, his love for the game endures.
When quizzed about a potential England comeback, Anderson candidly shared, “That ship has sailed. My focus is firmly set on Lancashire and performing to the best of my ability.”
At Emirates Old Trafford, not only does Anderson have a section of the ground named after him, but he also serves as the senior professional in the team. There is a unique buzz this year with 16-year-old emerging talent Rocky Flintoff on the roster, whose father, Andrew Flintoff, was once Anderson’s teammate.
“I find it pretty special that I’m around as the son of one of my former teammates makes his way into the sport,” Anderson reflected. “There’s something exciting about the chance we might share the field together this year.”
For those interested in related stories, check out the latest updates on Ben Stokes as Durham’s boss shares insights on his fight to be fit for the summer.
