MANCHESTER — England's legendary fast bowler James Anderson has been selected by Manchester Originals for this year's edition of The Hundred, marking the first franchise tournament appearance of his illustrious 25-year career.
The 41-year-old, who recently retired from Test cricket after a record-breaking 188 matches, will bring his wealth of experience to the Originals' squad. Anderson, who took 700 Test wickets, joins a formidable bowling attack that includes fellow England internationals Jos Buttler and Jamie Overton. The announcement has electrified fans, with many calling it a "masterstroke" signing.
A Historic First for Anderson
Despite his dominance in Test cricket, Anderson has never played in a franchise-based T20 league. His participation in The Hundred—a 100-ball competition—comes as a surprise, given his previous focus on red-ball cricket. "It's exciting to try something new at this stage of my career," Anderson said in a statement. "I’ve always admired the energy of The Hundred, and I can’t wait to contribute to Manchester Originals."
Anderson’s selection follows his retirement from Test cricket in July 2024, after a farewell match at Lord’s against the West Indies. While many expected him to step away from the game entirely, his inclusion in The Hundred suggests he still has plenty to offer in shorter formats.
Why Manchester Originals?
Manchester Originals, led by captain Jos Buttler, have been aggressive in securing experienced players for the 2024 season. Anderson’s addition bolsters their bowling lineup, which struggled in previous editions. Head coach Simon Katich emphasized the value of Anderson’s leadership: "Jimmy brings not just skill but an unmatched understanding of the game. His presence will be invaluable for our younger bowlers."
Key reasons behind Anderson’s signing include:
- His ability to swing the ball, even in shorter formats
- Mentorship for emerging talents like Josh Tongue and Tom Hartley
- A proven track record in high-pressure situations
Fan Reactions and Expectations
The announcement has sparked excitement among cricket enthusiasts. Social media buzzed with reactions, with one fan tweeting: "Anderson in The Hundred? This is like Messi playing in MLS—legendary!" Others questioned whether his skills would translate to the fast-paced format, but analysts remain optimistic.
Sky Sports pundit Nasser Hussain weighed in: "Jimmy’s accuracy and control make him a threat in any format. Don’t be surprised if he takes the new ball and stifles batters early on."
What This Means for The Hundred
Anderson’s participation adds prestige to the tournament, which has faced criticism for its format but continues to attract top talent. His debut could draw record viewership, particularly from traditional Test cricket fans who may now tune in.
Sanjay Patel, managing director of The Hundred, said: "Having a player of Jimmy’s stature is a testament to the league’s growing appeal. It bridges the gap between formats and generations."
Looking Ahead
Anderson’s first match for Manchester Originals is scheduled for July 24 against Birmingham Phoenix. Whether this marks a one-off appearance or the start of a longer stint in franchise cricket remains to be seen. For now, fans are relishing the chance to see one of cricket’s greatest bowlers in a new light.
As Anderson himself put it: "I’m here to compete, learn, and enjoy the game. That’s what it’s all about."