Denied contract by Lancashire, James Anderson set to quit first-class cricket at 44

Lancashire Cricket Board has decided not to extend James Anderson's contract, despite the 44-year-old's continued exceptional performance. Anderson, who holds the record for the most wickets in England's history, will not be offered a new deal with the Lancashire County Cricket Club in 2027, the year he turns 45. His decision to retire from international cricket in 2024 prompted his continued play with Lancashire.

Anderson, who captained the team during the 2026 County Championship season, led his side despite a disappointing campaign that saw the Red Rose finish next to the bottom of Division Two. The club is currently undergoing a review of its cricket operations, with new CEO Richard Kenyon and Dame Sarah Storey leading the charge.

Anderson's decision to stay with Lancashire comes at a time of uncertainty for the club. Paul Farbrace was appointed as the new director of cricket earlier this month. Despite his age, Anderson has remained in peak form for Lancashire. He took 50 wickets in the 2026 County Championship, a statistic shared by only six other bowlers in Division Two. With 1,193 first-class wickets to his name, Anderson has been a stalwart for the Lancashire club.