Following the first Test match at Lord’s against the West Indies, legendary pacer James Anderson made the decision to terminate his career in cricket.
Since making his debut for the national team in 2002, the 41-year-old has been a regular. But with a view towards the future, the pacer made the decision to hang up his boots and give the younger people chances.
Rob Key, the managing director of the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), extended an offer to James Anderson to join the national squad following his retirement. Although James Anderson has not yet responded, he has been requested to mentor the team; a decision will not be made until after he retires.
Though there is no pressure on the batsman, Lancashire head coach Dale Benkenstein indicated that he can still play for Lancashire.
“I believe that the fact that James Anderson is returning is a plus. He is not being pressured by us. He’s been great, and his career has been amazing. He’s still got what it takes to play; the question is whether he wants to anymore. Dale Benkenstein said to BBC Radio Lancashire, “Bowling is hard work, so we will let him make the decision when the time is right.”
James Anderson can carry on playing cricket since he is in excellent physical condition, according to Benkenstein. Considering his advanced age, some people think Anderson should retire, yet he has been playing brilliantly lately, taking seven wickets against Nottinghamshire.
“Everyone speaks about his age, yet he still has that zip and is in such excellent physical condition. Even in the opposition, you can notice how different he is from the other bowlers. I believe that everyone is probably wondering how he will age, but he still has it. He looked in excellent shape considering he hadn’t bowled in roughly five months,” he continued.
On July 10, James Anderson last international match is scheduled to start. There has been no announcement regarding the special programme that ECB officials plan to host for his final game.