(Reuters) – England’s Harry Brook, Joe Root, and Mark Wood have been granted three-year central contracts as part of a new multi-year system, as announced by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) on Tuesday.
The ECB stated in a press release that England test captain Ben Stokes will receive a one-year deal, while his white-ball counterpart Jos Buttler has been offered a two-year contract.
“The new system, which covers both red-ball and white-ball players, takes into account the probability of players featuring in England teams across various formats over the next few years, while also recognizing their performances in the preceding year,” said the ECB.
“This is the first time multi-year contracts have been awarded since the establishment of central contracts in 2000.
“Throughout the process, the ECB has closely collaborated with the Professional Cricketers’ Association and Team England Player Partnership on behalf of the players to ensure a favorable outcome for all parties involved,” the statement added.
Brook, aged 24, is among the seven players who have been granted a central contract for the first time, alongside Rehan Ahmed, Gus Atkinson, Brydon Carse, Ben Duckett, Matthew Potts, and Josh Tongue. All these players have received two-year contracts.
“We are rewarding those players whom we anticipate will have a significant impact in the coming years while representing England,” stated Rob Key, managing director of England men’s cricket.
“This is fantastic news and a testament to the players for showcasing their dedication to English cricket within the ever-evolving landscape of the sport,” he added.
Batter Dawid Malan, who missed out on a full contract last year, has been given a one-year deal due to his exceptional recent form. Additionally, veteran bowler James Anderson has also been granted a one-year deal.
Matthew Fisher, John Turner, and Saqib Mahmood have been offered development contracts.
In 2021, England transitioned to a new system of central contracts, departing from the previous separation of red-ball and white-ball contracts that the ECB introduced in 2016.
(Reporting by Aadi Nair in Bengaluru; Editing by Ken Ferris)
