James Anderson considers participation in T20 leagues following Test retirement
James Anderson, the seasoned England fast bowler, is contemplating a surprising return to cricket after his recent retirement from Test matches. He retired following his first Test against West Indies, marking the end of an illustrious international career. Anderson holds the distinction of being the third-highest wicket-taker in Test history. Meanwhile, the pacer is now considering participation in franchise T20 tournaments.
Anderson eyes 'The Hundred' tournament for potential return
After retiring from Test cricket, Anderson took on the mentoring role with the England team for the final two Tests against West Indies. Despite his international retirement, he never officially declared an end to his professional career. Now at 42, Anderson is considering a return to the game through next season's 'The Hundred' tournament.
Anderson expresses interest in shorter cricket formats
Anderson has expressed interest in exploring shorter formats, having never played franchise cricket before. The ongoing 'The Hundred' tournament piqued his curiosity. "There's definitely intrigue with the shorter formats because I've not played any franchise stuff before. Watching The Hundred this year, seeing the ball swing around, it makes me feel like I could do a job there," Anderson told PA news agency.
Anderson acknowledges potential doubts about his return
Anderson acknowledges that there might be doubts about his ability to return to the game due to his age and time away from cricket. "It's hard to know if there'll be any interest from people wanting me to play. So we'll wait and see. I know it's a while since I played it and my age will get brought up again," he said.
Anderson's future role in England team uncertain
England captain Ben Stokes has expressed interest in having Anderson as the team's mentor during the Ashes. However, Anderson is still undecided about pursuing a coaching career. "It's still a long way away and I still need to see if this is what I'm passionate about. Stokesy and England need to decide if I'm the right man for the job too," he said.
41 wickets in T20 cricket
Anderson last played a T20 match almost 15 years ago, in November 2009. As per ESPNcricinfo, he scalped 41 wickets from 444 T20 matches at an economy of 8.47. His best figures read 3/23. 18 of his wickets have come in 19 T20 matches (ER: 7.84)
