England fast bowler James Anderson became the first cricketer to pose naked for a gay magazine when he appeared in the front cover of the latest edition of Attitude.
The 28-year cricketer, who is married and has a child, appeared in a naked shot inside the latest edition of UK's best-selling gay magazine, Attitude.
Soon after posing naked, Anderson said he believed there was no homophobia in cricket and gay players should feel comfortable coming out.
"There's a perception of lots of committees and old men being quite prim and proper, but I think the game is moving with the times," he was quoted as saying by BBC Sport.
"If there are any gay cricketers they should feel confident enough to come out because I don't think there is any homophobia in cricket," he said.
Anderson said he was delighted to avail the opportunity even though he knew he would come for sharp criticism from some quarters for his daring act.
"Football fans can be quite abusive and quite harsh, and cricket fans can be like that sometimes, but they are generally quite placid and there to watch the game and support their team."
Anderson, who plays for Lancashire County, added that he hoped the feature would encourage new fans to the sport.
Attitude editor Matthew Todd said: "Jimmy is obviously completely comfortable in his own sexuality to appear naked in a gay magazine.
"In fact it was his wife [Daniella] and her many gay friends who convinced him to do it. We're very grateful to her."
"I think I probably will get some stick for it but I'm more than prepared for that. I'm quite happy to take it, because I'm delighted that I've had the chance to do it. I would never change it," the English pacer said.
"If they want to give me some stick, let them give me their best shot," he added.
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