Former England paceman James Anderson has certainly minced no words on his short tenure in The Hundred. The 43-year-old had expressed that he 'hated every minute of it' whilst playing in the 100-ball competition last summer.

 

Anderson retired from international cricket earlier this year but had turned out for Manchester Originals as a wildcard pick in the 2025 season where it had not been the best summer for the bowler as he only bagged two wickets in three games. Following this dismal performance and appearance in the competition, he has ruled himself out of the 2026 season as he would be focusing on red ball cricket with his County side Lancashire.

 

Focus on County Cricket and Fitness

 

When asked about his reasons to step away, Anderson made it crystal clear that he's not only pulling out due to his experience last summer but more so because he is captaining Lancashire this season.

 

Anderson said:

 

"It was a mixture of hating every minute of The Hundred last year, if I can say that, and especially being (Lancashire) captain this year."

 

He also added:

 

"I think it's really important that I focus on being as fit as I can be for the four-day stuff." Anderson plans to take a break during The Hundred window. "When The Hundred's on I'm hopefully going to be on holiday somewhere."

 

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Future Plans and Career Thoughts

 

At the age of 43, Anderson isn't looking to entirely leave the game altogether. He is leading Lancashire this season and hopes that the county can achieve promotion into Division One this season. The County veteran was candid that he is pondering a potential comeback should his team get promoted to Division One.

 

He said:

 

"I think there are times throughout the winter where I maybe thought about what if we get promoted and we've got a chance to push for the championship next year. Would I want to be involved in that? And of course I would."

 

He also stated on occasions where he finds his body struggling.

 

"And then there are other times when I wake up and I struggle to walk to the toilet in the morning and think maybe I can't get another year out of my body."

 

The Hundred 2026 is scheduled to take place from July 21 to August 16, whereas the County Championship began this week. Anderson is clear with his priorities now.