Lancashire deny James Anderson a new deal, leaving his career at a crossroads

Lancashire have decided not to offer James Anderson a new contract, leaving the future of England’s all-time leading Test wicket-taker uncertain.

Anderson, 44, continued playing for Lancashire after England brought his international career to an end in 2024. He captained the county in the Championship last season, but Lancashire struggled and finished next to bottom of Division Two.

The decision means Anderson will not be given the chance to play at Old Trafford in 2027, when he turns 45. The BBC report says it is not known whether he will retire or seek to extend his 26-year professional career with another county.

Anderson is England’s leading Test wicket-taker, with 704. His Lancashire future had been reported by The Times before the BBC published its account.