Anderson stops short of retiring after Lancashire exit

England's all-time leading wicket-taker James Anderson has expressed sadness at being released by Lancashire, but stopped short of confirming the end of his playing career.

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James Anderson has expressed sadness at being released by Lancashire, but stopped short of confirming the end of his legendary playing career, according to a statement from the county. Anderson, England's all-time leading wicket-taker, was informed by Lancashire last Monday that he will not be offered a new contract by the county he first represented in 2001.

Anderson, 44, wrote on Instagram: "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." Despite turning 45 next year, Anderson had planned to play in the summer of 2027. Following news of his exit from Old Trafford, BBC Sport learned other counties would be interested in signing the seam bowler.

Lancashire released their first statement about Anderson's exit, explaining their decision. The Red Rose finished second-bottom in Division Two of the County Championship last season and have appointed Richard Kenyon as their new chief executive and Paul Farbrace as director of cricket. Farbrace said the county are looking to "rebuild", with the goal of challenging to win the County Championship within three or four years, by which time Anderson will be in his late 40s.

Anderson first played List A cricket in 2000 as a 17-year-old for the Lancashire Cricket Board against Suffolk. He made his professional debut for Lancashire a year later and was in the England team by the end of 2002.