James Anderson contemplates comeback in white-ball cricket

England’s celebrated fast bowler, James Anderson, is contemplating a return to cricket just a month after retiring from Test matches. 

The 42-year-old stepped away from the international Test arena after playing against the West Indies at Lord's. Now, Anderson is considering participating in white-ball cricket, specifically in The Hundred tournament.

Anderson, who is the only pace bowler to have taken over 700 wickets in Test cricket, ended his storied career as the third-highest wicket-taker in Test history. Post-retirement, he joined the England team as a bowling mentor for the last two Tests against the West Indies.

Despite his retirement from Test cricket, Anderson never officially ruled out playing all forms of cricket, sparking interest in his potential return.

The veteran bowler is intrigued by The Hundred tournament, especially given the conditions that allow for swinging deliveries. He recently mentioned his fascination with the shorter formats, having never participated in franchise cricket before.

"There's a bit of intrigue with the shorter formats because I've not played any franchise stuff before. Watching The Hundred this year, and seeing the ball swing around, makes me feel like I could do a job there. I might be in a bit of denial because I'm well aware. I won't play for England again but I've still not made a decision on my actual cricket career," Anderson said.

Anderson’s last appearance in a T20 International for England was in 2009, as he dedicated the latter part of his career to Test cricket. Now, he’s open to exploring his options in the shorter formats.

"Once this summer is done I can sit down and think if I want to play cricket in some shape or form again next year. I'm quite open at the minute to thoughts of any sort of cricket, I'm still fit enough to play and I'm not shutting myself off to anything," he further added.

Despite the concerns about his age, Anderson remains confident in his abilities and excited about the prospect of playing again. He acknowledges the uncertainty about the interest from teams, but believes in his capability to compete in The Hundred.

"It's hard to know if there'll be any interest from people wanting me to play in that sort of thing so we'll wait and see. I know it's a while since I played it and my age will get brought up again but I really feel I'll be good enough to play that form of cricket," he concluded.