James Anderson has admitted he had no desire to retire from Test cricket. He revealed that the decision to end his international career was made by England's team management, not by him.
The legendary fast bowler made his debut in 2003 and became one of the most prolific pacer in Test history. He played his final match against West Indies at Lord's in July 2024.
📲 Follow The Sporting News India on WhatsApp
Anderson signed off with four wickets against West Indies at Lord's in 2024 and took 704 in total from 188 Tests. In an interview with Sky Sports, Anderson shared that he still felt fit and ready to contribute at the highest level - even after more than two decades in the game.
The former England fast bowler had hoped to continue playing for another year or more but was informed by captain Ben Stokes, head coach Brendon McCullum and ECB director Rob Key that England were moving in a new direction.
More: Which Indian batters have scored a Test century at Old Trafford in Manchester?
James Anderson shares he wanted to play Ashes 2025
Anderson said he felt no signs of decline and was surprised when the call came.
"Yeah, it probably made it harder to let go. I had no intention of retiring. I was happy with where I was at<" he said. "I was still bowling pretty well. Just been on a tour to India, and I did okay. My fitness was holding up. My speeds with the ball were where they had been for 15 years."
He added that he accepted the decision despite the initial shock because of his relationship with the trio - Stokes, McCullum and Key -- who delivered the news.
"I knew that it wasn't a decision where I could say, 'No, actually, I want to carry on.' They made the decision and I just had to try and deal with it" he admitted.
More: World Test Championship: India snubbed as England bag right to host next three WTC finals
The 42-year-old also admitted there were moments over the past year when he felt he could still make a difference - especially during big moments like the Ashes.
"There's been times over the last year or so where I've been a bit frustrated thinking I could do a really good job for the team in this situation. I still feel like I could have played in the Ashes if I was around with that England group."
While he is now focused on playing for Lancashire, Anderson continues to stay connected with the England setup. He shares advice with his former teammates whenever possible.
The curtain has fallen on his international career but not on his love for the game.
MORE: World Test Championship: India snubbed as England bag right to host next three WTC finals
The Ashes 2025/26 Schedule
The 2025/26 Ashes Test series will begin on November 21 at Perth. The five-match series is also a part of the World Test Championship 2025-27 cycle. Here is the full schedule:
| Fixture | Date | Venue |
|---|---|---|
| AUS vs ENG 1st Test | Nov 21-25 | Perth Stadium |
| AUS vs ENG 2nd Test (D/N) | Dec 4-8 | The Gabba, Brisbane |
| AUS vs ENG 3rd Test | Dec 17-21 | Adelaide Oval |
| AUS vs ENG 4th Test | Dec 26-30 | Melbourne Cricket Ground |
| AUS vs ENG 5th Test | Jan 4-8 | Sydney Cricket Ground |