Anderson, 44, not offered new Lancashire contract

Jimmy Anderson's cricket career may be coming to an end after Lancashire decide not to renew his contract.

The full report

Jimmy Anderson, England's all-time leading Test wicket-taker, may have played his last game of professional cricket after Lancashire decided not to renew his contract. The 44-year-old bowler had been on season-by-season contracts with his boyhood club following his retirement from England duty in 2024.

Anderson had been on season-by-season contracts with his boyhood club following his retirement from England duty in 2024, and captained the first team in their most recent campaign. He combined this with 50 wickets at a princely average of 17, even if it could not prevent the club's lowest finish in the two-division era.

The decision not to renew Anderson's contract comes at a time of upheaval at Old Trafford, with new chief executive Richard Kenyon and director of cricket Paul Farbrace taking charge. Farbrace, a former England assistant coach, was head-hunted to revive the ailing county.

Anderson's exit from the Red Rose comes after a 26-year professional career, during which he took 1,193 first-class wickets and over 400 in limited overs matches. He was awarded a knighthood 12 months ago for services to the sport.

Anderson's decision to continue playing with Lancashire after England forced him into international retirement in 2024 was seen as a surprise by many. He had been a key player for the Red Rose, taking 443 of his 1,193 first-class wickets for the county.