England wicketkeeper-batter Jamie Smith has been given a lucrative two-year ECB central contract. The 24-year-old has had an impressive start to his Test career, having slammed 637 runs in nine games at an average of 42.46. Smith has also featured in seven ODIs.

England Test captain Ben Stokes and white-ball skipper Jos Buttler have both signed new two-year central contracts. Stokes has committed to England until at least 2026, covering the Ashes series in Australia, which starts late next year, while Buttler has agreed fresh terms, extending his contract by 12 months.

Off-spinner Shoaib Bashir, wicketkeeper-batter Phil Salt, fast bowler Olly Stone and all-rounder Will Jacks have also received England central contracts for the first time, with each signing on for one year. Fast bowler Gus Atkinson has had his terms upgraded until 2026 while Harry Brook, Joe Root and Mark Wood still have two years left to run on their existing deals. 

The ECB issued 18 multi-year deals last October, but this time, it has reduced to just seven individuals.

“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,” Rob Key, England men’s managing director, said. 

“These contracts reward the players we believe will play an important role for our England Men’s teams. Both our captains, Ben Stokes and Jos Buttler, 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.”

Moeen Ali, Dawid Malan and James Anderson, who have now retired from international cricket, are out, and so are Ollie Robinson, Ben Foakes, Matthew Fisher and Saqib Mahmood. Robinson last played for England in February, while Foakes last played a Test in March.

(With inputs from AFP)

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