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James Anderson will continue his playing career with Lancashire after signing a new deal with the county for 2025.
Anderson, 42, concluded his record-breaking England career last summer, finishing with 704 Test wickets after more than two decades with the team.
He has since rejoined the coaching staff, but kept open the option of continuing to play outside of international cricket, entering the Indian Premier League (IPL) auction late last year.
Although no deal has been agreed, Anderson has now re-signed to his home county to provide a significant boost to the Red Rose following their relegation from the County Championship First Division last year.
“I’m incredibly excited to sign this contract with Lancashire and return to professional cricket next season,” Anderson said after agreeing a one-season deal following the conclusion of his England central contract.
“This club has played a huge role in my life since I was a teenager, so to have the opportunity to wear the Red Rose again and help the team in red and white ball cricket is something I will love. really looking forward to it.
“I have worked hard to keep my fitness levels high and continue playing regularly during my coaching tenure with England throughout the winter, with the aim of being able to hit the ground running when the county season begins in April.”
Anderson could make his first T20 appearance since 2014 in the T20 Blast. Meanwhile, his most recent first-class appearance for Lancashire came in June when he took 7 for 35 against Nottinghamshire at Southport.
He could also explore opportunities in franchise tournaments around the world, while continuing his burgeoning career as a coach and in the media.
“Speaking to Jimmy recently, it became clear that his desire to return to playing professional cricket was growing stronger every day and that he was just desperate to get back on the park,” added Mark Chilton, Lancashire director of cricket.
“As it stands, he is fully committed to the county season for both the County Championship and Vitality Blast this summer, and while we all recognize he will have other opportunities, he has made it clear that acting was his first priority.
“Being 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 team and I am confident that our members and supporters, as well as cricket fans across the world, will be just as excited to see Jimmy in action for Lancashire next summer.
