England, Apr 02 : Legendary England fast bowler James Anderson has made headlines with a candid reflection on his brief stint in The Hundred, revealing that he “hated every minute” of his involvement in last year’s competition.
The 43 year old, who retired from international cricket in 2024 after an iconic career, featured in three matches for Manchester Originals during the 2025 season. Despite earning his place through strong performances in domestic T20 cricket, Anderson struggled to make an impact, claiming just two wickets and failing to find enjoyment in the format.
Speaking openly about his experience, Anderson indicated that the fast paced nature of the tournament did not align with his preferences. He also suggested he would rather take a break during the competition window in future, instead of participating again.
His remarks come as a notable setback for the England and Wales Cricket Board, which has been actively promoting The Hundred as a key innovation to attract new audiences. While Anderson’s comments appear to reflect personal preference rather than outright criticism, they may reinforce ongoing debates around the format’s place in the game.
Turning the page, Anderson is now fully committed to red-ball cricket and his leadership role at Lancashire County Cricket Club. Recently appointed as the club’s full time captain, he is focused on guiding the team back to Division One in the County Championship.
Reflecting on his new responsibility, Anderson described the captaincy as an honour and expressed confidence in the squad’s balance of youth and experience. He emphasized the importance of maintaining passion for the game, urging players to enjoy cricket beyond it being just a profession.
As Lancashire prepare to kick off their season against Northamptonshire County Cricket Club, Anderson’s priorities are clear success in the longer format and fostering a strong team environment. His disappointing experience in The Hundred appears to have only strengthened his commitment to traditional cricket.