James Anderson, one of the most celebrated fast bowlers in cricket history, has recently reflected on the unexpected end of his international Test career, the new coaching role he’s embracing, and his ambitions for a future in the Indian Premier League (IPL). With a career spanning over two decades for England, Anderson’s departure from the Test arena caught many by surprise, and his thoughts on the matter shed light on both the challenges and opportunities ahead.

Unexpected end to an iconic career for England

Anderson’s retirement from Test cricket was a decision that came somewhat abruptly, taking him, and many within the cricketing world, by surprise. The England management, led by head coach Brendon McCullum and captain Ben Stokes, opted to bring in fresh faces ahead of the Ashes 2025/26 series, ending Anderson’s remarkable Test career. Despite having the desire to continue playing, Anderson was informed that it was time for him to step aside. His final appearance came in July 2024 during England’s Test series against the West Indies at Lord’s.

In an interview with The Guardian, Anderson admitted the emotional toll of the decision. Though he accepted the call, he couldn’t hide his disappointment at being pushed out before he felt ready. He shared that, had it been his choice, he would have continued to play for another year. His wife, Daniella Lloyd, was particularly affected by the decision, feeling that her husband deserved to make the call himself rather than having it imposed upon him. Despite these feelings, Anderson has expressed gratitude for his career, which saw him become England’s all-time leading wicket-taker in Tests, with 704 wickets.

“I think so, yes. She’s been my biggest supporter from when we first met. I had injuries and she was the one who motivated me to get going again. She just felt it wasn’t the right way to have done things. She felt I should go on my own terms. But I think it’s easing now. I don’t think I was angry. I was just shocked. But, to be honest, I would have carried on for as long as my body let me. Maybe I needed that nudge to say now’s a good time to finish,” Anderson said.

Transitioning to coaching: Sharing knowledge with the next generation

While Anderson’s playing days are behind him, his cricketing journey is far from over. Following his retirement, he has taken on a role as a mentor to England’s fast bowlers, a transition that has proven both rewarding and emotionally challenging.

Anderson’s coaching role began during the second Test of England’s series against the West Indies in 2024, when he formally became a fast-bowling mentor. In his new capacity, Anderson helps guide the team’s pacers not only with technical advice but also with the mental aspect of the game. Reflecting on this shift, Anderson acknowledged that while it’s an emotional adjustment, it has allowed him to remain close to the game he loves. Anderson further said while he misses the thrill of playing, he enjoys the chance to shape the next generation of fast bowlers.

“If it had been completely cut out of my life I don’t think I’d have coped very well. The fact that they wanted me to stay in the group helped me. I’m still having the dressing-room environment, still seeing my mates every day, still having an impact on Test matches, but obviously in a very different way,” the 42-year-old added.

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The IPL 2025 dream: A new challenge for James Anderson

Alongside his coaching duties, Anderson has turned his attention to the Indian Premier League (IPL), a competition he has never fully participated in. Despite his success on the international stage, Anderson has yet to make a significant impact in T20 cricket’s biggest league. However, the 2025 IPL auction could change that, with Anderson registering his name for the first time.

Anderson revealed that he had been encouraged by former IPL players to join the competition, and the prospect excites him. Although he has limited experience in T20 leagues, his proven record as one of the world’s top fast bowlers makes him an appealing option for any franchise. “The feedback on social media has been amazing. I didn’t expect it to kick up this much of a fuss. But I really want to experience it because everyone says it’s an amazing tournament,” Anderson concluded.

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