In a move that has stunned fans and inspired millions, James Anderson — one of cricket’s greatest fast bowlers — is set to make a comeback in The Hundred 2025, representing Manchester Originals at the age of 43.
Selected as a wildcard, Anderson is now poised to become the oldest player ever in the history of The Hundred, proving once again that passion and performance can defy age.
Still Cool. Still Deadly.
While many players his age are enjoying retirement or commentary gigs, Anderson is padding up — ready to bowl in front of packed crowds once again. After retiring from Test cricket earlier this year with over 700 wickets, many assumed we had seen the last of him on the field. They were wrong.
Anderson lit up this year’s T20 Blast with masterful spells — bagging 14 wickets in 7 games — earning him a surprise, but well-deserved, place in The Hundred.
“If I can still compete, why stop?” Anderson told reporters. “I love this game too much.”
What He Brings to the Originals
Manchester Originals aren’t just signing a name — they’re bringing in:
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One of the sharpest cricketing minds alive
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A proven match-winner with world-class swing bowling
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A mentor for rising fast bowlers like Josh Tongue and Luke Wood
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A calm leader during high-pressure moments
His role will likely be focused on the powerplay overs, where his control and movement can neutralize even the most aggressive batters.
Stats Don’t Lie
| Tournament | Matches | Wickets | Economy | Best |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| T20 Blast 2025 | 7 | 14 | 6.44 | 4/17 |
Former teammates and commentators have hailed his return as “inspiring” and “unbelievable.”
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Nasser Hussain: “He’s not just playing. He’s competing. That’s Anderson for you.”
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Fans on Twitter/X: “James Anderson at 43 is bowling better than some 23-year-olds. Unreal!”
Young bowlers across the UK are excited to share a dressing room with a living legend, calling him “the ultimate cricket teacher.”
Mark the Date
Anderson is expected to take the field on August 6, when Manchester Originals face Birmingham Phoenix. Should he play, it will mark yet another historic milestone in a career full of records, longevity, and unmatched dedication.
Final Word
James Anderson is not chasing records — he’s chasing joy. At 43, he’s reminding the world that class doesn’t age.
Whether he plays one match or an entire season, his presence alone elevates the spirit of the game.