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James Anderson, Rocky Flintoff roped in as wildcard picks at the Hundred

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.

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. "I've loved my time with Lancashire this season, so I'm excited to have the opportunity to add value in the Hundred.

"It's a competition I've really enjoyed watching. When you're at the games you can really see that it does attract a slightly different crowd, a lot of younger people and families, and you can't underestimate how important that is for our game. I can't wait to get out there."

The Northern Superchargers meanwhile, have roped in Rocky Flintoff – the 17-year-old son of former all-rounder Andrew who also coaches the team in the Hundred. Rocky is yet to feature in a T20 game but recently impressed for England U-19 against India U-19, scoring a century in the 50-over format and a 93 in the youth Test.

A total of 32 wildcard signings were made – two each for Hundred and Women's Hundred – by the six teams. Australia's Hilton Cartwright is the only foreign player among those picked, coming in as Faf du Plessis's replacement at Southern Brave following the latter's withdrawal from the tournament due to injury. Brave also brought in Jason Roy.