Former South African cricketer Dale Steyn has come out in support of James Anderson following his dismal debut in the 2025 Hundred. The 43-year-old allowed 36 runs in his 20 deliveries for Manchester Originals versus Southern Brave at Old Trafford.
Steyn shared his thoughts on X (previously Twitter), even hoping that the veteran will be signed by a SA20 side for the forthcoming season. However, the comments section of Steyn’s post did not share the same feelings. Many people believe Anderson is not cut out for such fast-paced cricket and should not be benching a promising young player.
Interestingly, Anderson, who became the second-oldest player in The Hundred, began with a clean slate with the ball. In the second innings, he conceded only ten runs in as many deliveries. The most damage was dealt on Anderson’s final three balls, when Jason Roy tore at him, hitting a couple of fours sandwiched by a maximum.
Manchester Originals finally lost the game by one wicket with one ball remaining. Scott Currie’s four-wicket haul (4/28 in 20 balls) was in vain, as Craig Overton’s unbeaten eight-ball 18 sealed the win for the away team.
Here’s how X reacted to Anderson’s debut in The Hundred:
43-year-young James Anderson is all set to turn up today for his first Hundred game in front of his home crowd 💯 pic.twitter.com/EIX46uMNB2
— ESPNcricinfo (@ESPNcricinfo) August 6, 2025I’d buy Jimmy in the SA20
Unfortunately I’m not a coach anymore. Hope he still gets a gig if he wants it.
— Dale Steyn (@DaleSteyn62) August 6, 2025At 43 years, 7 days,
James Anderson might become the oldest franchise cricket debutant today. pic.twitter.com/B1fP5fQvqG
— Aman Patel (@lilbrownykid) August 6, 2025
