England's James Anderson eyes The Hundred, registers for draft
What's the story
Veteran England cricketer, James Anderson, has officially registered for the upcoming draft of the Men's Hundred.
The move comes after a professional hiatus since his last international appearance, the Lord's Test against the West Indies in July 2024.
During this break from playing, he took on the role of consultant coach for England during their winter training and Champions Trophy preparations.
Comeback
Return to competitive cricket
In January, Anderson signed a one-year contract with Lancashire, marking his return to competitive cricket for the 2025 season.
This contract has fueled his ambition to make an appearance in The Hundred.
Despite not having played white-ball cricket for nearly six years and T20 format for over a decade, he is determined to participate in this year's T20 Blast for Lancashire.
Draft details
Potential role in The Hundred
Anderson has signed up for the draft with no reserve price, which takes place on March 12.
If he fails to find a place, he could still be a part of The Hundred as an injury replacement or wildcard player.
The veteran cricketer had last year expressed his excitement about the tournament when he said, "Watching the Hundred this year, seeing the ball swing around, it makes me feel like I could do a job there."
Age factor
Anderson's age and potential impact on The Hundred
Anderson, who will turn 43 just before The Hundred kicks off on August 5, is set to become the tournament's second-oldest player after Imran Tahir (2022), as per ESPNcricinfo.
His age hasn't stopped him from hoping for a place in this elite event.
The likes of Michael Hogan and Wayne Madsen have also played in The Hundred before, showing that age can be an asset, not a liability.
Career
A look at Anderson's illustrious career
Anderson retired last year as the only fast bowler to have taken over 700 wickets in Test cricket, finishing with a tally of 704 at 26.45.
Only two bowlers, Muthiah Muralidaran (800) and Shane Warne (708), took more Test wickets than Anderson.
He signed off with 188 Test appearances, second only to Sachin Tendulkar (200).
Anderson, who played his last ODI in 2015, is still England's highest wicket-taker in the format (269).