James Anderson signs season-long deal with Surrey weeks after ending 25-year Lancashire spell

James Anderson signed a season-long contract with Surrey in London on Thursday, weeks after ending a 25-year stint at Lancashire, and will play county cricket at age 45.

Anderson said he still felt able to contribute both on and off the field, saying: “I still feel like I have a lot to offer," Anderson said, "taking wickets, trying to help the team win games of cricket. I also think that I can bring a lot to the team off the field and help those young players who are looking to develop their skillset and go on and represent their country.” Last month he voiced regret about how his time at his boyhood county Lancashire ended; at Lancashire’s Old Trafford ground there is a stand named after him. He is aged 44, and will turn 45 during the 2027 season.

Anderson remains England's all-time record wicket-taker and his international career concluded in July 2024.

It was at The Oval — Surrey's home ground — where Anderson moved past Australia great Glenn McGrath's tally for the most wickets taken by a pacer in Test cricket, reaching the mark when he bowled Mohammed Shami for his 564th wicket.

Surrey director of cricket Alec Stewart said the club were pleased to add Anderson to their squad. “His 50 championship wickets last season prove that he is still one of the best bowlers in the country,” Stewart said.

Stewart added that Anderson would bring experience to Surrey’s bowling group. “Jimmy also brings a wealth of experience to the group that all our bowlers will learn from. Much of our squad have international aspirations, and they will learn a great deal from training, playing and being in the same dressing room with Jimmy.”

Anderson’s agreement with Surrey covers the forthcoming season as a one-year deal, meaning he will be available to play county cricket during the 2027 campaign.