BURNLEY fast bowler James Anderson has been named as England’s cricketer of the year.

The 29-year-old Lancashire seamer received his award at a special dinner held in the Long Room at Lord’s yesterday evening, hosted by the ECB.

Anderson beat off competition from fellow nominees Stuart Broad and Alastair Cook to win the men’s award which was decided by votes from members of the cricket media.

Anderson, who is currently the number three ranked bowler in the ICC’s Test rankings, enjoyed an excellent 12 months with England which saw him take his 250th Test wicket and rise to fifth on the list of England’s all-time wicket-takers in Test cricket.

Commenting on his award, James Anderson said: “I am flattered to win this award and would like to thank everyone who voted for me. I have been pleased with my performances over the last year and was delighted with the way I bowled on the recent tour of Sri Lanka - but I take even greater pleasure from being part of such a successful England team. “