At an age when cricketers transition to commentary or coaching, James Anderson is taking a different path by aiming for an IPL debut at 42. In July 2024, Anderson retired from international cricket following England’s Test match against the West Indies at Lord’s. Following this Test match, he was named the team’s bowling mentor. While this marked the conclusion of a storied international career, it didn’t mark the end of his competitive aspirations.
Anderson recently expressed that he still had a strong desire to continue representing England but understood the necessity for the team to bring in younger talent. His graceful acceptance of this reality hasn’t quenched his passion for the game, leading him to explore the IPL for the first time. Registering for the 2025 auction with a base price of INR 1.25 crore, Anderson aims to prove himself in a league renowned for intense competition.
James Anderson last played a T20 match in 2014 during the NatWest T20 Blast final and hasn’t featured in limited-overs cricket since a List A match in 2019. Despite James Anderson’s limited recent experience in T20 cricket, his exceptional calibre could still attract bids in the IPL 2025 auction. Chennai Super Kings might be one of the frontrunners in making a bid for him, owing to several compelling reasons. Here are three reasons why CSK could target Anderson.
1. CSK’s Success with Veteran Players
The franchise has a reputation for extracting peak performances from veteran cricketers, as seen with players like MS Dhoni, Imran Tahir, and Dwayne Bravo. CSK management is known for thinking outside the box. Who would have predicted Cheteshwar Pujara’s return to the IPL? Yet, in 2021, CSK signed him at a base price of ₹50 lakh despite his reputation as a Test specialist.
Similarly, James Anderson’s reputation may be built on Test success, but CSK does not let such labels dictate their decisions. They focus on talent and know exactly how to utilize it. They have MS Dhoni, who excels at bringing out the best in every player and finding unique roles that maximize their impact.
2. James Anderson Could Be Lethal in Powerplay
James Anderson is one of the greatest swing bowlers in cricket history, mastering both outswing and inswing deliveries. Swing bowlers make a huge impact in the IPL. During England’s 2024 tour of India, Anderson demonstrated that his swing skills are effective not only in English conditions but also on Indian pitches.
His ability could be valuable for Chennai Super Kings at their home ground, Chepauk. James Anderson’s three overs with the new ball during the powerplay could prove lethal due to his ability to swing the ball both ways. Alternatively, he could also be used effectively in the middle overs, where the game typically slows down.
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3. CSK’s History of Reviving Careers
CSK has a knack for bringing out the best in seasoned cricketers who others might consider past their prime. Shane Watson, who was blamed for RCB’s loss in the 2016 IPL final, transformed into a match-winner for CSK. Watson played a pivotal role in their 2018 title victory.
Similarly, Ajinkya Rahane, whose IPL career seemed over after 2022, was bought by CSK for ₹50 lakh. He delivered an exceptional performance in 2023, helping CSK lift the trophy that year. The franchise has also successfully brought out the best in veteran players like Imran Tahir and Dwayne Bravo. If CSK buys Anderson, his experience may be invaluable.