England's legendary fast bowler James Anderson is not ready to call time on his cricket career, despite approaching his 45th birthday. The veteran pacer has signed a contract with Surrey for the 2027 County Championship season, marking a new chapter in his remarkable career after ending his 25-year association with Lancashire.

Anderson had initially considered retirement after Lancashire decided not to retain him. However, the opportunity to continue playing at The Oval persuaded the England great to return to professional cricket. His new deal means he could remain active in the game beyond his 45th birthday.

Last month, Lancashire announced that Anderson would be leaving the club. The decision came after the team finished seventh in the second division of the County Championship, their worst-ever position in the competition. Newly appointed cricket director Paul Farbrace had indicated plans to rebuild the squad, resulting in Anderson's departure.

The decision came despite an impressive individual campaign from the veteran fast bowler. Anderson claimed 50 wickets last season and was named Lancashire's Championship Player of the Year. His performances had suggested that he still had plenty to offer, making the club's decision particularly disappointing.

At Surrey, Anderson will reunite with Alec Stewart, the club's director of cricket. The pair share a long history, as Anderson made his Test debut at Lord's in 2003 while Stewart was part of the England setup.

Anderson expressed his excitement about joining one of England's leading county clubs. "It is a privilege to join a club like Surrey, and I cannot wait to start this new chapter of my career. Surrey have a fantastic squad that is always competing for the Championship title, and I am excited to be part of it," he said.

He also revealed that a phone call from Stewart played a significant role in his decision. Their long-standing relationship and Surrey's interest convinced him to accept the offer after several weeks of discussions.

Anderson believes his experience can make a difference both on and off the field. He hopes to continue taking wickets, helping the team win matches and guiding younger players who dream of representing England at international level.

Surrey are also looking to rebuild after a difficult campaign. Having won three consecutive Championship titles and finished as runners-up once, they faced the threat of relegation from the first division last season. The departure of head coach Gareth Batty to Chennai Super Kings has added to the club's rebuilding efforts.

The Oval holds a special place in Anderson's career. He played 16 of his 188 Test matches at the venue, taking 50 wickets. In 2018, he surpassed Glenn McGrath's tally of 563 Test wickets by dismissing India's Mohammed Shami at the ground, becoming the most successful fast bowler in Test history.

Anderson retired from international cricket in 2024 after his final Test at Lord's, finishing with 704 wickets, the third-highest tally in Test history behind Muttiah Muralitharan (800) and Shane Warne (708).

He also recorded a memorable ODI hat-trick against Pakistan at The Oval in 2003.

Meanwhile, Stewart welcomed Anderson's arrival, highlighting his outstanding bowling ability and the valuable experience he can share with Surrey's younger players. The club hopes his presence will strengthen their Championship ambitions in 2027.