James Anderson has decided to join the excitement of this season’s Hundred draft, showing that he’s ready to extend his unexpected return to domestic cricket.
At 42, Anderson had a heartfelt farewell last summer at Lord’s, stepping away from his outstanding international career with England. Yet, there’s still fire in him, and he’s gearing up to play for Lancashire in the Rothesay County Championship this season.
Interestingly, he threw his hat into the ring for the Indian Premier League auction as well, even though his last T20 match was over ten years ago. Though he wasn’t picked, Anderson is now eager to take part in the Hundred. Up until now, he’s only experienced the competition from the commentator’s box.
By the time the fifth season of the Hundred begins, Anderson will be 43. The decision now lies with the teams: do they dial up for a player with Anderson’s celebrated reputation and impressive career, or lean towards younger players with more short-form cricket experience?
Next Wednesday marks the day of the draft with 37 slots open for men and 29 for the women’s teams.
Anderson dropped a hint about his interest not long after switching his international kit for a coaching position. “Watching The Hundred this year, seeing the ball swing around, it makes me feel like I could do a job there,” he commented. “I’ve never really delved into franchise cricket, so there’s a certain allure to the short formats.”
Initially, when the Hundred started, Anderson was tied in name, not in play, to the Manchester Originals. Their home, Old Trafford, even features the James Anderson End. However, this connection was never solidified.
The Originals still have five vacancies on their roster, from the high-paying £200,000 spot down to £63,000, leaving room for an experienced pace bowler.
Big names from England, like Jason Roy, Dawid Malan, Rehan Ahmed, Zak Crawley, and Dan Lawrence, are available for selection. Up-and-coming talents like Rocky Flintoff, Archie Vaughan, and Ben McKinney might also catch the eye.
And for those entering the draft who might not make the cut initially, there will be another opportunity to join the squads as wildcard signings later in the season.
