November 9, 2024: James Anderson’s decision to register for the IPL 2025 auction is a fascinating one, especially given his status as one of the greatest fast bowlers in Test history.
At 42, after an illustrious career with 704 Test wickets and a total of 991 international wickets, it’s clear that Anderson is not done with cricket just yet. His desire to continue playing, especially in a tournament as high-profile as the IPL, speaks to his passion for the game and belief that he still has something to offer.
Despite retiring from international cricket earlier this summer and transitioning into coaching, Anderson has expressed a keen interest in continuing to bowl. The fact that he’s still staying fit and bowling regularly indicates that he’s serious about extending his playing career, albeit in a different format. The IPL, with its heavy emphasis on T20 skills, is a stark contrast to the traditional, patient nature of Test cricket, but it could offer Anderson a new challenge where his experience and skills could still be highly valuable.
Given his level of fitness and experience, particularly as a bowler who has honed his craft over two decades, it would not be surprising to see Anderson play a role in the IPL. While his base price of ₹1.25 crore may be considered modest by IPL standards, it reflects a realistic approach for someone of his age and status. Teams might be looking at him not just as a player but also as a mentor for younger bowlers. His leadership and wisdom could prove invaluable in a high-pressure tournament like the IPL.
If picked, Anderson’s presence could add a strategic edge to any side that requires a seasoned fast bowler, particularly in the later overs. It will be interesting to see whether a franchise decides to take a punt on the veteran seamer, but based on his desire to keep playing and the physical condition he seems to be in, Anderson’s potential involvement in IPL 2025 could be an exciting storyline.
