Lancs to scupper Jim game

LANCASHIRE have kiboshed any chance of James Anderson turning out for Surrey this summer by arranging a special match for him to return from injury.

Anderson (above) has been strengthening his shoulder – following a chronic problem – since his last Test against Pakistan at the start of June and was looking for a game before the Roses clash with Yorkshire on July 22.

With Surrey playing the West Indies A in a three-day match, starting on July 16, it was thought that would be an ideal first run-out.

But, instead, Lancashire have arranged a three-day 2nd XI match against Nottinghamshire, beginning on July 15.

And in an unexpected twist, the game may also serve as an ideal chance for Stuart Broad to test out his left ankle after complaining of soreness.

England all-rounder Ben Stokes has also played his first game back since suffering a torn hamstring in a T20 warm up for Durham ahead of their first Vitality Blast game on Thursday.