James Anderson has been confirmed as Lancashire County’s full-time captain ahead of the 2026 season, following his interim leadership over two spells in 2025. The appointment of the veteran fast bowler follows the resignation of Keaton Jennings in May 2025, marking a new chapter in the management of the team.
Anderson, 43, remains committed to Lancashire despite retiring from Test cricket in 2024. He retired with a record 704 Test wickets and he was awarded a knighthoodbut it did not diminish his commitment to the region. In the 2025 season, Anderson took 17 first-class wickets in six matches at an average of 25.94, proving his enduring value on the field.
The change in management is part of a wider response to a disappointing Lancashire Championship campaign in 2025. The club has made significant adjustments, including the departure of head coach Dale Benkenstein and the appointment of former player Steven Croft as the new head coach. Anderson enters the captaincy with a clear goal in mind.
“It was a huge privilege to captain Lancashire for the first time last season and I am honored to take on the role full-time for the new season,” said Anderson.
“We have a fantastic group of players, a great mix of youth and experience and I’m excited about what we can achieve together with promotion back to Division One our number one priority.”
In addition to Anderson’s appointment, Josh Bohannon will continue as vice-captain, maintaining the leadership structure first introduced in 2024. Vitality Blast captain Keaton Jennings remains. Meanwhile, Anderson was a key contributor in Vitality Blast 2025 with 20 wickets at an average of 16.10.
Steven Croft, who recently retired as a player to become head coach, expressed confidence in Anderson’s leadership abilities.
“Jimmy is an outstanding leader whose impact on the team is immense. His cricketing experience is second to none and the way he took over as captain during the second half of last season showed exactly why he is the right person for the job.”
“He also leads the way with his performances on the pitch and his commitment and dedication to training and living the right lifestyle sets the perfect standard for the rest of the dressing room.
“With Jimmy as captain and Josh continuing as vice-captain, we have a strong and stable leadership team to drive our County Championship ambitions next season.”
Anderson’s dual roles in both the County Championship and Vitality Blast reflect his continued commitment to Lancashire. His contributions on the field during 2025 have strengthened his influence and reliability, despite his recent international retirement.
The 2026 Lancashire County Championship campaign begins on April 3 with an away game against Northamptonshire, followed by a home game against Derbyshire. These matches will be the first test of the team’s new management’s efforts to achieve immediate promotion back to Division One.
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Published on:
December 12, 2025
