Jimmy Anderson, England’s legendary fast bowler, has hinted at a potential return to white-ball cricket after retiring from international red-ball cricket last month. Anderson, who holds the record for most Test wickets for England with over 700 scalps, is considering playing in the Hundred, a 100-ball cricket tournament.
“I might be in a bit of denial because I’m well aware I won’t play for England again, but I’ve still not made a decision on my actual cricket career,” Anderson told the Press Association. “There’s definitely a bit of intrigue with the shorter formats because I’ve not played any franchise stuff before.”
Anderson, who played 194 ODIs and 19 T20Is for England, became a Test-match specialist in 2015. However, he believes he still has the skills to compete in white-ball cricket. “Watching The Hundred this year, seeing the ball swing around, it makes me feel like I could do a job there,” he said. “I know it’s a while since I played it and my age will get brought up again, but I really feel I’ll be good enough to play that form of cricket.”
Anderson’s return to white-ball cricket would be a significant boost for the Hundred, which is entering its third season in 2023. The tournament has been praised for its innovative format and its ability to attract top players from around the world.
In addition to his potential return to playing, Anderson is also being considered for a mentorship position with the England cricket team. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) is keen to tap into Anderson’s vast experience and knowledge to help develop the next generation of fast bowlers.
Anderson’s career has been one of the most successful in the history of cricket. He has taken over 1,000 wickets in all formats and has been a key member of England’s Test team for over two decades. His return to white-ball cricket would be a fitting end to a remarkable career.
