England's two men's captains, Ben Stokes and Jos Buttler, have both signed new two-year central contracts, providing a significant boost to English cricket. Last year, Stokes turned down a three-year deal when the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) first offered multi-year contracts, opting instead for a 12-month agreement. It was speculated that he kept his options open pending the negotiation of a new memorandum of understanding. On Thursday, it was confirmed that Stokes had signed a new two-year contract that extends through to 2026, including the upcoming away Ashes series in Australia next winter.
Central contracts enable the ECB to regulate which franchise leagues their players participate in, allowing them to manage player workloads throughout the year. Buttler has renewed the two-year contract he signed last year, demonstrating his renewed commitment to the white-ball team, especially with Brendon McCullum joining as head coach in January.
Announcing the contracts, Rob Key, managing director of England men's cricket, stated: "Both our captains have signed two-year central contracts, highlighting the commitment of all the players to prioritize playing for their country." He added, "I want to congratulate all the players who have signed new central contracts ahead of what promises 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 awarded central contracts for the first time. Smith's contract is for two years, while the others have signed for 12 months. In total, 29 players have received contracts, an increase from 26 last year. Seven players have two-year deals, 19 are signed for one year, and there are three development contracts.
Key emphasized, "The strength and depth of talent across England men's red and white-ball cricket is evident in the quality of players who are centrally contracted." 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 awarded to Jacob Bethell, John Turner, and Josh Hull. Hull made his Test debut against Sri Lanka in September, while both Bethell and Turner are currently part of the white-ball squad in the Caribbean and are expected to play significant roles.
Jimmy Anderson, Dawid Malan, and Moeen Ali no longer hold central contracts following their retirements from international cricket. Sussex bowler Ollie Robinson and Surrey wicketkeeper Ben Foakes have not been offered new deals.
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