England captains Ben Stokes and Jos Buttler sign two-year central contracts

The captains of England’s men’s cricket team, Ben Stokes and Jos Buttler, have both secured new two-year central contracts, which is a positive sign for English cricket.

Last year, Stokes turned down a three-year contract when the England and Wales Cricket Board presented multi-year agreements for the first time. Instead, he chose to sign a one-year deal. It was thought that he wanted to keep his choices flexible while a new understanding was being finalized.

On Thursday, it was announced that Stokes has officially signed a new two-year contract that will extend until 2026. This deal also covers the upcoming Ashes series in Australia next winter.

Central contracts enable the ECB to oversee the leagues that their players participate in, allowing them to effectively manage their players' workloads throughout the year.

Buttler has extended the two-year deal he agreed to last year, demonstrating his renewed dedication to the white-ball squad as Brendon McCullum steps in as head coach this January.

In a recent announcement regarding the contracts, Rob Key, the managing director of England men’s cricket, stated: “Our two captains have both agreed to two-year central contracts, demonstrating the dedication of all players to put representing their country first.”

"I’d like to extend my congratulations to all the players who have secured new central contracts as we look forward to an exciting time for England Men's cricket."

Five players—Jamie Smith, Will Jacks, Shoaib Bashir, Phil Salt, and Olly Stone—have received central contracts for the first time. Jamie Smith's contract is for two years, while the others have agreements lasting one year.

Overall, a total of 29 players have been given contracts this year, an increase from 26 last year. Among them, seven have agreements that last for two years, 19 are signed for a single year, and there are three development contracts in place.

Key highlighted the evident skill and richness of talent within England's men’s cricket, both in red and white-ball formats, as seen in the caliber of players who hold central contracts.

Promising talent Gus Atkinson has extended his two-year contract, while Jack Leach and Reece Topley have both committed to new one-year deals.

The three development contracts have been awarded to Jacob Bethell, John Turner, and Josh Hull. Hull played his first Test match against Sri Lanka in September, while Bethell and Turner are currently part of the white-ball team in the Caribbean and are anticipated to play significant roles.

Jimmy Anderson, Dawid Malan, and Moeen Ali have lost their central contracts after stepping away from international cricket. Additionally, Sussex fast bowler Ollie Robinson and Surrey keeper Ben Foakes have not received new contracts.