Four Months After Retirement, Anderson Sets His Sights on IPL
In a surprising move, England’s legendary pace bowler, Jimmy Anderson, has entered the auction for the Indian Premier League (IPL) this month. This comes just four months after his international retirement. The 42-year-old, England’s all-time leading wicket-taker, retired from international duty following an emotional final Test match at Lord’s in July, but this IPL auction entry signals his interest in rekindling his cricket career, now in the T20 format.
A Fresh Start in Franchise Cricket
Anderson’s entry into the IPL is notable, as he has never previously participated in a global T20 franchise league. His last T20 appearance was a decade ago in 2014, and he has since been dedicated to red-ball cricket. However, in August, Anderson hinted at the possibility of exploring shorter formats, expressing a sense of intrigue for T20 cricket.
“There’s definitely a bit of intrigue with the shorter formats because I’ve not played any franchise stuff before,” Anderson stated. He also mentioned, “Watching The Hundred this year… it makes me feel like I could do a job there.”
Anderson’s Thoughts on Retirement and Continued Passion
Although Anderson has retired from international cricket, he hasn’t fully closed the door on his career in general. He noted in an interview that he hadn’t made a definitive decision about his future in cricket, leaving open the possibility of playing franchise or other formats. His entry into the IPL auction suggests a desire to stay in the game, albeit in a different format than fans are used to seeing him in.
Ben Stokes Withdraws from IPL Amid New Rules
While Anderson is ready to take on the IPL, England’s red-ball captain Ben Stokes has opted out of this year’s tournament. With new IPL rules banning players for two years if they pull out mid-season, Stokes is focusing on his fitness and is choosing to skip the 2024 IPL. This absence has left some fans disappointed, as he had previously shown interest in returning to white-ball cricket.
English Players Set for a Competitive Auction
The 2024 IPL auction will take place on November 24-25 in Saudi Arabia, with 52 English players registered. Notably, several prominent English players, including Jos Buttler, who was released by the Rajasthan Royals after seven seasons, will be available in the auction. None of the English players were retained by franchises this year, meaning that top names like Jofra Archer and Buttler could end up with new teams for the upcoming season.
New IPL Rules and Retention Limits
This season’s IPL introduces stricter retention rules and consequences for overseas players who withdraw. Franchises can now retain only six players, reducing the flexibility teams once had. These retention limits, along with new withdrawal penalties, indicate a shift toward stability within teams while ensuring players commit to their contracts.
A Base Price and a Possible Comeback
With a base price of £114,000, Anderson enters the auction with a competitive starting point. At 42, he remains fit and capable, sparking excitement among fans eager to see how he performs in T20 cricket. If picked up, Anderson’s presence will bring an experienced edge to the franchise that acquires him, making this IPL season a unique chapter in his illustrious career.(live score cricket ipl)