Lancashire fast bowler James Anderson will be available to play for his county from the start of the season until the middle of May.

England player Anderson has a central contract with the England and Wales Cricket Board, so can only play for Lancashire when he is allowed to do so.

He will be free to face Somerset and Durham in the County Championship and play in a Friends Provident Trophy tie.

The 25-year-old played a central role for England as they beat New Zealand.