File image of James Anderson© NDTV Library
England great James Anderson will extend his remarkable playing career for at least one more season after signing for county side Surrey ahead of the 2027 campaign. Anderson, England’s all-time leading Test wicket-taker, was released by his home county Lancashire at the end of the 2026 season. However, the 44-year-old will continue playing after agreeing a move to The Oval, where he will join the reigning County Championship contenders. “It’s an honour to join a club like Surrey and I can’t wait to start a new chapter in my career,” Anderson said after the announcement on Thursday.
“I still feel like I have a lot to offer, taking wickets and helping the team win games of cricket. I also believe I can contribute off the field by helping young players develop their skills and progress towards representing their country,” he added.
Anderson enjoyed an impressive 2026 season despite Lancashire’s struggles. Captaining the side, he claimed 50 wickets in 11 County Championship matches at an outstanding average of 17.68.
Nevertheless, Lancashire’s incoming director of cricket Paul Farbrace and new chief executive Richard Kenyon informed Anderson last week that his contract would not be renewed for the 2027 season.
The decision mirrors the end of Anderson’s international career two years ago, when he was effectively ushered into retirement after England’s leadership group, comprising director of cricket Rob Key, head coach Brendon McCullum and captain Ben Stokes, decided to move in a different direction.
Anderson finished his illustrious Test career with 704 wickets, the most by any fast bowler in the history of the format.
His move to Surrey now offers the veteran seamer an opportunity to continue playing at the highest domestic level while also mentoring the next generation of English cricketers.
(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)
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