James Anderson officially appointed as captain amid England’s disastrous Ashes 2025–26 campaign
Former England Cricketer James Anderson Named Full-Time Captain of Lancashire County Team
Despite turning 44 next summer, former England pacer James Anderson has shown his commitment to the game by accepting the role of full-time captain for the Lancashire County team in the upcoming season. Widely regarded as one of the greatest red-ball bowlers in cricket history, Anderson may have retired from international cricket, but he is not ready to give up on the sport just yet.
A Legendary Career
James Anderson is England’s highest wicket-taker and the third-highest wicket-taker in international cricket. Throughout his career, he has proven himself to be a formidable force with the red ball, coming just 9 wickets shy of the remarkable milestone of 1000 wickets. His appointment as Lancashire’s full-time captain marks a new chapter in his illustrious career.
Embracing a New Role
At 43, Anderson is taking on a new challenge as the captain of Lancashire. In an era where players often retire in their early 30s, Anderson’s determination to continue playing, even in his mid-40s as a fast bowler, is truly remarkable. As he gears up to lead the team in the County Championship campaign, Anderson is ready to showcase his leadership skills on and off the field.
Support and Trust
Following the resignation of Keaton Jennings as captain last season, Anderson stepped in and now assumes the role full-time. His former teammate, Lancashire veteran Steven Croft, has shown faith in Anderson’s leadership abilities. Croft believes that Anderson’s experience and influence on the squad will be invaluable in guiding the team to success.
Anderson expressed his excitement about the upcoming season, emphasizing the team’s goal of earning promotion back to Division One. With a mix of seasoned veterans and promising young talents, Anderson is confident in what the team can achieve together.
Continued Success
As Anderson takes on the role of full-time captain for Lancashire, Keaton Jennings is expected to continue leading the team in the Vitality Blast. Jennings, along with vice-captain Josh Bohannon, will form a strong leadership team that aims to drive the team’s ambitions in the upcoming season.
Lancashire will kick off their Championship campaign with a match against Northamptonshire followed by a game against Derbyshire at Emirates Old Trafford. With Anderson at the helm, the team is poised to make a strong start to the season and pursue their goals with determination and skill.
Setting New Records
James Anderson’s decision to take on the role of full-time captain for Lancashire comes at a time when he is on the brink of achieving a significant milestone in his career. With 991 Test wickets under his belt, Anderson is closing in on becoming the first fast bowler in the history of the game to reach the coveted 1000-wicket mark. His dedication to the sport and his desire to continue playing at the highest level demonstrate his unwavering passion for cricket.
A Mentor and Role Model
Anderson’s appointment as captain not only highlights his leadership qualities but also positions him as a mentor and role model for the younger players in the team. His vast experience and knowledge of the game will be invaluable in guiding the next generation of cricketers and instilling in them the values of hard work, discipline, and resilience. Anderson’s presence in the dressing room will undoubtedly inspire his teammates to strive for excellence and push themselves to new heights.
Strategic Planning and Team Dynamics
As Lancashire gears up for the new season, Anderson’s strategic acumen and tactical insight will play a crucial role in shaping the team’s approach on the field. His ability to read the game, analyze opponents, and make decisive decisions under pressure will be instrumental in steering Lancashire towards success. By fostering a culture of teamwork, communication, and unity within the squad, Anderson aims to create a cohesive and formidable team that can compete at the highest level.
Building a Legacy
By accepting the captaincy role, James Anderson is not only leading Lancashire on the field but also leaving a lasting legacy in the annals of cricket history. His leadership tenure will be defined not only by victories and accolades but also by the impact he has on the players, the fans, and the game itself. Anderson’s determination to continue playing at the top level serves as a testament to his love for the sport and his commitment to upholding its values and traditions.
As Lancashire embarks on a new chapter with James Anderson at the helm, the team and its fans can look forward to an exciting and promising season ahead. With a legendary cricketer leading the way, Lancashire’s future shines bright with possibilities and opportunities for growth, success, and glory.


