England’s two men’s captains, Ben Stokes and Jos Buttler, have both signed new two-year central contracts in a boost to the English game.
Last year Stokes rejected a three-year deal when the England and Wales Cricket Board offered multi-year contracts for the first time, instead opting to sign for 12 months. It was believed he kept his options open ahead of a new memorandum of understanding being agreed.
On Thursday it was confirmed Stokes had signed a new two-year deal that takes him through to 2026 and includes the away Ashes in Australia next winter.
Central contracts allow the ECB to control which franchise leagues their players compete in, meaning they can manage their workloads across the year.
Buttler has renewed the two-year contract he signed last year, in a show of fresh commitment to the white-ball team with Brendon McCullum joining as head coach in January.
Announcing the contracts, Rob Key, managing director of England men’s cricket, said: “Both our captains have signed two-year central contracts that showcase the commitment of all the players to prioritise playing for their country.
“I want to congratulate all the players who have signed new central contracts ahead of what is set to be an exciting period for England Men’s cricket.”
Five players – Jamie Smith, Will Jacks, Shoaib Bashir, Phil Salt and Olly Stone – have been given central contracts for the first time. Smith’s deal runs for two years, with the rest signing for 12 months.
In all, 29 players have received contracts, up from 26 last year. Seven have two-year deals, 19 are signed for one year and there are three development contracts.
“The strength and depth of talent across England men’s red and white-ball cricket is clear in the quality of players who are centrally contracted,” Key said.
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Breakthrough star Gus Atkinson has renewed his two-year deal, while Jack Leach and Reece Topley have signed new one-year contracts.
The three development contracts have been give to Jacob Bethell, John Turner and Josh Hull. Hull made his Test debut against Sri Lanka in September, while both Bethell and Turner are current members of the white-ball squad in the Caribbean and expected to feature heavily.
Jimmy Anderson, Dawid Malan and Moeen Ali no longer have central contracts following their retirements from the international game. Sussex bowler Ollie Robinson and Surrey wicketkeeper Ben Foakes have not been given new deals.
