After years of being an international cricketer, England's veteran pacer James Anderson could finally play franchise cricket. The fast bowler, who will turn 43 five days before the start of the 2025 edition on July 5, has become Manchester Originals' wildcard draft pick. The ECB introduced the rule of 'wildcard draft' where teams can add two more players to their rosters from those that missed out during the main player draft.

For the first time in 11 years, Anderson returned to domestic T20 cricket this year with Lancashire Lightning in the T20 Blast. In the eight games of the ongoing competition so far, Anderson has picked 14 wickets - including a three-fer in his comeback match.

"I'm really looking forward to The Hundred and I'm really happy to be part of the Manchester Originals squad," Anderson said of his signing. "I've loved my time with Lancashire this season, so I'm excited to have the opportunity to add value in the Hundred.