James Anderson, the most prolific fast bowler in Test cricket history, is contemplating an unexpected return to white-ball cricket, despite his recent retirement from international duty.
The 42-year-old England legend, who retired in emotional scenes at Lord’s last month, is considering a comeback, not in the traditional sense but possibly through participation in the T20 franchise circuit or next season’s Hundred competition.
Anderson’s retirement marked the end of an illustrious international career, during which he became the highest wicket-taker among fast bowlers in Test cricket, with over 600 wickets to his name. His decision to step away from England duty seemed to signal the conclusion of his playing days, particularly as he transitioned almost immediately into a coaching and mentoring role.
However, Anderson has now revealed that he never officially announced his retirement from all forms of cricket, leaving the door open for a possible return to the field.
In a recent interview with the PA news agency, Anderson expressed his openness to the idea of playing cricket again, particularly in the shorter formats that he has largely avoided in recent years. “I might be in a bit of denial because I’m well aware I won’t play for England again, but I’ve still not made a decision on my actual cricket career,” Anderson said. “There’s definitely a bit of intrigue with the shorter formats because I’ve not played any franchise stuff before.
Watching the Hundred this year, seeing the ball swing around, it makes me feel like I could do a job there.”
Anderson’s interest in the T20 and Hundred formats represents a significant shift for a player who has spent the better part of the last decade as a red-ball specialist.
The last time he played a 20-over match was in 2014, and since then, he has focused almost exclusively on Test cricket. However, his enduring fitness and skill, combined with the resurgence of swing bowling in the shorter formats, have reignited his passion for the game.
“Once this summer is done, I can sit down and have a real think if I want to play cricket in some shape or form again next year. I’m quite open at the minute to thoughts of any sort of cricket,” Anderson added. “I’m still fit enough to play and I’m not shutting myself off to anything.
It’s hard to know if there’ll be any interest from people wanting me to play in that sort of thing, so we’ll wait and see. I know it’s a while since I played it and my age will get brought up again, but I really feel I’ll be good enough to play that form of cricket.”
While Anderson’s possible return to playing is intriguing, it is also clear that he remains deeply committed to his new role as a mentor. His current position with the England and Wales Cricket Board is open-ended, and he has already been approached by captain Ben Stokes to lend his expertise on next winter’s Ashes tour in Australia.
Anderson acknowledged the possibility, saying, “My love for Test cricket is always going to be there, and the Ashes is the biggest thing you can be involved in as an England player. If you’re not playing, then the next best thing is trying to help the team from the sidelines.”
odri