Jimmy Anderson in sensational retirement U-turn: England legend will play on next summer aged 45 as TWELVE counties offer him chance to extend career after Lancashire axe

England cricket legend Sir Jimmy Anderson has reversed his retirement plans and will play next summer after receiving offers from 12 counties. Anderson, who turns 45 during the 2027 season, initially contemplated retirement after boyhood club Lancashire chose not to offer him a new contract. However, he is now close to agreeing to terms with a new club following the massive surge in interest across domestic cricket.

Anderson spent 26 seasons with Lancashire, taking 50 Division Two wickets at an average of 17.68 in 2026 before new director of cricket Paul Farbrace chose to rebuild the squad without him. Anderson noted on the Tailenders podcast that while he was sad about his departure, he is excited for the future as he looks to add to his 1,193 first-class wickets.