James Anderson
The 44-year-old had a strong season as captain in 2026, taking 50 wickets at an average of 17, despite Lancashire’s struggles in Division Two of the County Championship. However, the county have decided against offering him a new contract for the 2027 season, bringing his 25-year association with the club to an end. The Lancashire departure comes two years after Anderson’s England Test career ended in 2024. England’s highest Test wicket-taker, he claimed 704 wickets in 188 matches, making him the most successful fast bowler in the history of the game.
James Anderson has confirmed that his departure from Lancashire was not how he wanted his time at the club to end.
Anderson has not said whether he intends to continue playing for another county. “I have always found it special walking out to play at Old Trafford and have some incredible memories of doing so, including the honour of being captain – if it was up to me it wouldn’t have ended like this, but I wish the players and fans all the best for the future.
His exit from the England Test set-up was also not his decision. Then head coach Brendon McCullum and captain Ben Stokes decided that Anderson was not part of their plans going forward. An end at Old Trafford, Lancashire’s home ground, has also been named after him.
He continued to play for Lancashire after leaving international cricket and was named captain of his boyhood club last year.