England's legendary bowler, James Anderson has confirmed that he will extend his playing career by signing a one-year contract with Lancashire for the 2025 season.
According to details, the 42-year-old, who retired from international cricket in July after claiming 704 wickets in 21 years, will now focus on the County Championship and T20 Blast, to mark his return to T20 cricket for the first time since 2014.
"I’m very excited," Anderson stated. "While I’m still fit enough and young enough, I want to play."
Having become the third-highest wicket-taker in Test history, Anderson’s decision to continue his career in county cricket came after retiring from international duties.
He will also continue his role as a bowling consultant for the England team during the Champions Trophy in February and March.
Anderson made it clear that while he valued his coaching position, his priority for the summer would be playing for Lancashire.
"I don't think it would be fair on Lancashire if I just dipped in and out," he explained. "It's only fair that I give it a good crack and that'll take precedence over anything else during the summer."
Since making his first-class debut for Lancashire in 2002, Anderson has taken 1,126 wickets in 298 first-class matches, with 376 wickets coming from 95 appearances for the club.
"The one thing I’ve known for many months is that I wanted to play cricket," Anderson added. "It was just trying to find what sort of cricket I wanted to play, and after a few chats with Lancashire and their plans for the year, it just felt like a nice thing to do."
Lancashire will begin their County Championship Division Two campaign against Middlesex at Lord’s on April 4, followed by their T20 Blast season starting on May 29 when they host Worcestershire.
