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Anderson’s 24th Season Delayed
James Anderson focuses on Lancashire return after a right calf injury pushed back his comeback to county cricket. England’s all-time leading wicket-taker was expected to play in April, but he’ll now miss the first month of Lancashire’s 2025 County Championship campaign.
The 42-year-old was set for a symbolic return at Lord’s—also the venue of his final Test in July last year—but that plan is now shelved.
Yes, James Anderson focuses on Lancashire return, putting England hopes aside and aiming to help his county fight their way back to Division One.
Injury on Pre-Season Trip
Anderson sustained the calf strain during a training camp in Spain. It’s the same leg injury that hampered his Ashes 2019 series. Despite this, he’s optimistic:
“I feel great. My fitness is as good as it’s been. I’m really excited.”
This year marks a new chapter—one Anderson hopes to write on his own terms after being nudged into international retirement last year.
Playing Over Coaching
Anderson assisted England as a bowling consultant in the Champions Trophy and other tours but wants to return to competitive action rather than move into a full-time coaching role—at least for now.
“I’ve told England I want to focus on playing. If there are small coaching opportunities, we’ll talk about it, but right now it’s about Lancashire.”
He’s still open to helping if needed, but not as a permanent mentor.
Chasing Personal Closure
While he’s been valuable behind the scenes—guiding the likes of Chris Woakes and Gus Atkinson—Anderson is eager to shift from supporting others to performing himself. His performance last season (7 for 35 vs Nottinghamshire) showed he’s still got it.
He won’t chase England selection but won’t shy away from success either. For Anderson, 2025 is about closing his career in his own way.
| James Anderson’s 2025 Plans | Details |
|---|---|
| County Return Delayed | Out for April with calf strain |
| Playing Priority | Wants to focus on Lancashire, not coach |
| England Role | Open to short-term help if needed |
| Goals for the Season | Personal satisfaction, team success |
He’s 5 matches away from 100 appearances for Lancashire. His role at Old Trafford will be more than just wickets—he brings unmatched experience to a young squad, including players like Harry Singh, son of his former teammate RP Singh.
What Comes After 2025?
Anderson won’t make promises about the future:
“I could play a month and say, ‘That’s it.’ Or we could win everything and I might go again next year.”
At this stage, it’s about control. After having his Test retirement decided for him, Anderson now wants to finish his journey his way.
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