England legend James Anderson extends playing career by joining Surrey

James Anderson took 50 wickets for Lancashire last season. | Photo Credit: Getty Images

Legendary England fast bowler James Anderson has extended his career past his 45th birthday by joining County Championship side Surrey ahead of the 2027 season.

Anderson had been without a club after he was released by boyhood club Lancashire as it looked to bounce back from finishing second-bottom of Division Two last year.

The decision was a controversial one, as Anderson was club captain and took over 50 wickets for the club last season. He was subsequently linked to multiple clubs as he looked to extend his playing career.

“It’s an honour to join a club like Surrey and I can’t wait to start a new chapter in my career. Surrey have a great squad and are a team that expects to be fighting for Championship titles and I’m excited to be a part of that.

“I still feel like I have a lot to offer, taking wickets, trying to help the team win games of cricket. I also think that I can bring a lot to the team off the field and help those young players who are looking to develop their skillset and go on and represent their country,” Anderson said in a statement on the Surrey website.

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“I’ve always loved playing at the Kia Oval. For me it’s one of the best grounds in the world. It’s a place that I have some incredibly special memories at and I hope to create some more next season.”

“We’re delighted to bring someone of the calibre of Sir James Anderson to Surrey. Jimmy brings quality with the ball. His 50 championship wickets last season prove that he is still one of the best bowlers in the country,” said Surrey Director of Cricket Alec Stewart.

“Jimmy also brings a wealth of experience to the group that all our bowlers will learn from. Much of our squad have international aspirations, and they will learn a great deal from training, playing and being in the same dressing room with Jimmy.”

The 44-year-old has 911 international wickets, including 704 Test wickets, the most of any Englishman and any fast-bowler.