James Anderson, England’s legendary pace bowler, has surprised the cricketing world by registering for the upcoming IPL mega auction. The 42-year-old, who retired from Test cricket earlier this year as the most successful fast bowler in the format, has set a base price of Rs 1.25 crore for the auction scheduled for November 24 and 25 in Jeddah.
Anderson’s decision to enter the IPL auction is driven by his desire to enhance his knowledge of the game and gain experience as a coach. Despite never having played in the IPL or a T20 match since 2014, Anderson believes he has more to offer as a player and is eager to learn from the world’s best T20 league.
“There is still definitely something in me that thinks like I can still play. I have never done the IPL; I have never experienced it and I think for a number of reasons I feel like I have more to give as a player,” Anderson told BBC Radio 4 Today in a podcast.
Anderson’s illustrious Test career spanned 188 matches, during which he claimed 704 wickets, placing him third on the all-time wicket-takers list behind Muttiah Muralitharan and Shane Warne. His exceptional skill and longevity have earned him the nickname ‘Burnley Express.’
While Anderson acknowledges that his playing days are numbered, he is keen to continue his involvement in cricket in a coaching capacity. He has already gained some experience mentoring the England team and believes that playing in the IPL will further enhance his knowledge and expertise.
“I have done a little bit of coaching since I have finished in the summer. I have been around the England team doing a bit of mentoring or whatever you like to call it,” he said. “I just think opening my eyes to something like that and experiencing it, sort of might help me grow my knowledge of the game and help further down the line.”
Anderson’s decision to enter the IPL auction has sparked speculation about which teams might be interested in acquiring his services. His experience and skill could prove invaluable to any franchise looking to bolster their bowling attack.
