BURNLEY cricketer Jimmy Anderson is set to became the first professional player to appear on the cover of gay magazine Attitude.

The 28-year-old England star, who is married, insisted there was no homophobia in the game as he posed nude for next month's issue.

"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 said.

"From my point of view, I think doing this could be fantastic for cricket. Hopefully this will attract a new sort of fan."

The player said he would probably get 'some stick' for taking part in the shoot by fashion photographer Ram Shergill but insisted he was 'more than prepared' for it.

He added: "If there are any gay cricketers, they should feel confident enough to come out, because I don't think there is homophobia in cricket.

"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."

Asked how he would react if a cricketer came out, he said: "I'd throw them a special gay cricket tea."

Attitude Editor Matthew Todd said the cricketer's decision would send a 'strong, playful signal' that sportsmen can be comfortable with homosexuality among team-mates and fans.

"Jimmy is obviously completely comfortable in his own sexuality to appear naked in a gay magazine," he said.

"In fact it was his wife and her many gay friends who convinced him to do it. We're very grateful to her."

The October issue goes on sale on September 21.