Former England captain Nasser Hussain has voiced disappointment that Lancashire chose not to renew the contract of James Anderson, calling it a hugely sad way for the England legend to end his association with the county. Hussain said he did not expect Anderson to be among the problems facing Lancashire, pointing out that the seamer took 50 wickets at an average of 17 last season and remains a Lancashire boy through and through.
Hussain recalled selecting Anderson for England in Australia in 2002, when he was picked almost straight from Lancashire's second team. He said Anderson's longevity as a fast bowler was incredible. While Hussain said he could not judge Lancashire's financial situation, he questioned whether not renewing the contract of a club legend was the right change to make.
Hussain also questioned England's decision to leave Anderson out and retire him, a call he described as marginal at best, as selectors sought younger bowlers such as Gus Atkinson and Josh Tongue. He argued that Anderson would still have bowled well in Australia last winter and had outperformed some of the county's current bowlers. He praised Anderson's control, his ability to switch between swing and wobble seam, and his hunger and fitness at the age of 44, adding that most counties in the country would take him.
Hussain noted that Paul Farbrace, newly appointed as Lancashire's director of cricket, appears to want a clean sweep and a new direction without Anderson. Lancashire have underachieved in recent years and finished second from bottom in Division Two. Hussain said the club must find a way to return to being a great side while retaining the figures who can help guide that journey.
Source: Sky Sports Champions League · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing