England cricket star Ben Stokes is set to give the team a major boost by signing a two-year central contract that will keep him with the team until the 2025-26 Ashes tour. Last year, Stokes only signed a one-year deal, despite the England and Wales Cricket Board offering multiyear contracts to players like Joe Root, Mark Wood, and others.
The ECB will be offering fewer long-term deals this year due to expensive mistakes made the previous year. Stokes had kept his options open last year due to his knee surgery, but has since proven himself fit for Test cricket. He will lead England in the upcoming Test series in Pakistan.
Stokes’ commitment is seen as a significant development for English cricket following the announcement that Brendon McCullum has extended his contract as England’s Test and white-ball coach until the end of 2027. Stokes’ willingness to commit for a longer period reflects his desire to continue working with McCullum, who has helped transform England’s Test team.
The ECB may offer extensions to players like Ollie Pope and Jofra Archer who are entering the final year of their contracts. Players like Jamie Smith and Josh Hull are also in line for central contracts after their impressive performances. However, players like James Anderson and Dawid Malan are unlikely to be offered new deals.
Stokes’ commitment and the potential contract extensions for other players reflect a positive outlook for English cricket as they prepare for upcoming series and tournaments.
Source
Photo credit www.theguardian.com
