Legendary England fast bowler James Anderson has extended his professional career by signing a deal with Surrey for the 2027 season. The 44-year-old, who was released by his long-term club Lancashire last month, will join the London-based side to continue his playing career beyond his 45th birthday.
Anderson, the most successful fast bowler in Test history with 704 wickets, confirmed the move after attracting interest from several clubs. While the current agreement covers the 2027 campaign, reports suggest the contract could potentially extend further.
Speaking on his podcast, Anderson expressed his enthusiasm for the new opportunity. He said he was incredibly excited to join a squad with high ambitions and that he felt he still had significant contributions to make on the field.
Surrey Director of Cricket Alec Stewart welcomed the arrival of the veteran seamer. Stewart said that Anderson’s quality with the ball and his vast experience would be invaluable to the squad, particularly for the younger bowlers looking to develop their skills.
Anderson took 50 wickets for Lancashire during the 2026 season, though the club finished second-bottom of Division Two. His move to The Oval provides him with an opportunity to compete in Division One of the County Championship once again.
The veteran bowler has signed a red-ball only contract, though he indicated a willingness to play white-ball cricket if required. There is no formal coaching component included in the deal as he focuses on his playing commitments.
Surrey are currently in a period of transition, as they are also seeking a new head coach following the departure of Gareth Batty to the Indian Premier League. The club has won three of the last five County Championship titles.
Anderson will join a seam attack that already features England-contracted players Gus Atkinson, Matthew Fisher, and Henry Crocombe. He noted that the strength of the squad was a key factor in his decision to move south.
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