‘If it was up to me…’: England icon breaks silence on brutal axing as Ashes foe slams ‘wasted opportunity’

England bowling legend Jimmy Anderson has confirmed his departure from Lancashire after the county chose not to extend his contract for the 2027 season. Anderson, who spent 25 years with the club, stated on Instagram that the decision was not his choice. Incoming director of cricket Paul Farbrace explained that the difficult move comes as Lancashire begins an extensive squad rebuild following a second-from-bottom finish in Division Two.

The decision drew criticism from former Australian batter Usman Khawaja, who called it a "wasted opportunity" for younger county players to learn from elite talent. Despite turning 44, Anderson showed strong form during the season, taking 50 wickets at an average of 17.68 across 11 matches, and multiple County Championship clubs have reportedly already expressed interest in signing him.