James Anderson can still play for Lancashire, says head coach Dale Benkenstein

Dale Benkenstein & James Anderson (Source : Twitter)

Legendary pacer James Anderson decided to retire from international cricket after the first Test against West Indies at Lord’s. The 41-year-old made his debut in 2002 and since then, has been a regular in the national side. However, keeping an eye on the future, the pacer decided to hang up his boots and give opportunities to the youngsters. 

Meanwhile, England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) managing director Rob Key offered Anderson a role in the national team after his retirement. He has been asked to mentor the team but Anderson is yet to confirm and a decision will only be made after his retirement. However, Lancashire head coach Dale Benkenstein confirmed that the cricketer can still play for Lancashire but there’s no pressure on him. 

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“I think the positive thing is that it’s not a no (to Anderson returning). We are not pressuring him. He’s been fantastic, he’s had an incredible career. He definitely can still play, it’ll just be whether he still has the desire to want to. Bowling is hard work and we will let him make the decision when the time is right,” Benkenstein told BBC Radio Lancashire.

Benkenstein added that Anderson is in very good physical shape and can continue playing cricket. Given Anderson’s age, there’s a belief that the time has come for him to retire but the cricketer has been exceptional, picking up seven wickets against Nottinghamshire recently.

“Everyone talks about age but he’s in such good physical shape and that zip is there. You can see the difference between him and the other bowlers – even in the opposition. I think that’s probably the question mark that everyone has on him getting older but he’s still got it. He hasn’t bowled for about five months so he looked in great shape,” he added.

Meanwhile, Anderson’s final international game will begin on July 10. ECB officials are likely to arrange a special program in his farewell game but nothing has been made public.