Jimmy Anderson, 44, signs for Surrey to play at Kia Oval in 2027
Jimmy Anderson has signed to play for Surrey at the Kia Oval in 2027, the 44-year-old announced on 12 November 2026 after being released by Lancashire at the end of the 2026 season.
Anderson, England men’s all-time leading wicket taker, left Lancashire after the club decided not to retain him following the 2026 campaign; he captained Lancashire for two seasons and took 50 championship wickets in the last campaign as the county finished second-bottom of Division Two. He made his Test match debut alongside Surrey’s director of cricket Alec Stewart in 2003.
“It’s an honour to join a club like Surrey and I can’t wait to start a new chapter in my career,” Anderson said. “I still feel like I have a lot to offer, 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 skill set and go on and represent their country.”
Anderson said he was “sad” and “quite shocked” after learning of Lancashire’s decision to release him and described an emotional period while deciding his future. “There was a bit of emotion in that few days. I was really conscious on not making a decision based on that emotion, so that’s why I have taken a few weeks to try to get my ahead around everything and decide what the best way forward is,” he said. “Going from thinking I might not play cricket again to having this opportunity – I’m properly buzzing for it.”
He emphasised his motives for signing were competitive rather than ceremonial: “I’m not doing this for a send-off. That’s not the reason I’ve signed for Surrey. Finding a club that wants me and has that same motivation to win trophies – I just want to be a part of something.”
Across his career Anderson has taken 1,193 first-class wickets and will turn 45 midway through next season, statistics he carries into his new agreement with Surrey for 2027.
“Jimmy brings quality with the ball. His 50 championship wickets last season prove that he is still one of the best bowlers in the country,” said Alec Stewart. “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 contract at the Kia Oval confirms he will continue his playing career in 2027 with Surrey.