England cricket legend Sir James Anderson has been handed a career lifeline by Surrey after being released by Lancashire following 25 years with his home county.

The 44-year-old fast bowler will join Surrey for the 2027 County Championship season after Lancashire decided against renewing his contract, despite him taking 50 wickets at an average of under 18 last season.

Anderson, England's leading Test wicket-taker with 704 wickets, had wanted to remain at Lancashire but was left facing an uncertain future when the county opted to move in a different direction.

He will now continue his remarkable playing career at the Kia Oval, linking up with Surrey director of men's cricket Alec Stewart, alongside whom he made his Test debut in 2003.

Surrey's Kia Oval ground
Surrey's Kia Oval ground (Tom White)

Anderson retired from international cricket in 2024 after a 21-year career, finishing as the most successful fast bowler in Test history.

It was at the Kia Oval in 2018 that he overtook Australian great Glenn McGrath's record for Test wickets by a fast bowler, dismissing Mohammed Shami to claim his 564th wicket.

Knighted for services to cricket in 2025, Anderson continued playing for Lancashire and was appointed captain for the 2026 season.

Despite his impressive performances, Lancashire decided not to offer him a new contract, bringing his long association with the county to an end.

Anderson said: “It’s an honour to join a club like Surrey and I can’t wait to start a new chapter in my career. Surrey have a great squad and are a team that expects to be fighting for Championship titles and I’m excited to be a part of that.

“I still feel like I have a lot to offer, taking wickets, trying to help the team win games of cricket. I also think that I can bring a lot to the team off the field and help those young players who are looking to develop their skillset and go on and represent their country.”

Alec Stewart will take on a scaled-down roll at Surrey (Photo: Mark Sandom)
Surrey director of men's cricket Alec Stewart. (Mark Sandom)

He added: “I’ve always loved playing at the Kia Oval. For me it’s one of the best grounds in the world. It’s a place that I have some incredibly special memories at and I hope to create some more next season.”

Surrey director of men's cricket Alec Stewart said: “We’re delighted to bring someone of the calibre of Sir James Anderson to Surrey. Jimmy brings quality