James Anderson will continue his County Championship career with Surrey in 2027, joining the Oval-based county after Lancashire decided against offering him a new contract following a 25-year association.

The 44-year-old had an impressive 2026 season, claiming 50 wickets at an average of just under 18 in the County Championship and winning Lancashire's player of the year award. However, Lancashire opted not to renew his contract, ending his long association with the club.

Anderson had expressed disappointment at the manner of his departure, saying, "If it was up to me, it wouldn't have ended like this." His former England fast-bowling partner Stuart Broad also criticised Lancashire's handling of the situation, describing it as "disrespectful". The legendary fast bowler will now reunite with former England teammate Alec Stewart, who is currently Surrey's Director of Men's Cricket.

Anderson retired from international cricket in 2024, having taken 911 wickets across formats, including 704 in Tests - the most by a fast bowler in the history of the game.

The Oval, meanwhile, also holds a special place in Anderson's career. It was at the venue in 2018 where he surpassed Glenn McGrath's record for most Test wickets by a fast bowler, dismissing Mohammed Shami to claim his 564th wicket.

"It's an honour to join a club like Surrey and I can't wait to start a new chapter in my career. Surrey have a great squad and are a team that expects to be fighting for Championship titles and I'm excited to be a part of that," Anderson said.

"I still feel like I have a lot to offer, taking wickets, trying to help the team win games of cricket. I also think that I can bring a lot to the team off the field and help those young players who are looking to develop their skillset and go on and represent their country."

Stewart said Anderson's experience would be valuable to Surrey's younger bowlers, pointing to his performances in the previous season. "Jimmy brings quality with the ball. His 50 Championship wickets last season prove that he is still one of the best bowlers in the country," Stewart said.

"Jimmy also brings a wealth of experience to the group that all our bowlers will learn from. Much of our squad have international aspirations, and they will learn a great deal from training, playing and being in the same dressing room with Jimmy."