In a sign of England’s faith in the men who starred in Ben Stokes’ Test team, ten of the players who featured in the bulk of the seven matches have all been awarded full contracts, including Zak Crawley, whose form was under constant scrutiny in the summer, but who repaid some of the management’s faith with a fluent half-century to seal England’s series win against South Africa at The Oval.
In a bid to protect England’s pace-bowling stocks, six further fast bowlers have been handed development contracts. Brydon Carse, Matthew Fisher and Jamie Overton – whose debut against New Zealand at Headingley is best remembered for his match-turning innings of 97 – join Saqib Mahmood, Craig Overton and Olly Stone who were awarded such a deal last year as well. Mahmood and Stone are both on the comeback trail after stress fractures of the back.
England’s managing director of men’s cricket, Rob Key, said: “I feel we have rewarded those players who have made a significant impact over the previous 12 months and those we expect to be part of England’s plans over the next period.
“The international game continues to evolve, and we must be mindful that we have to lead the way in player performance across the sport. The aim is to develop world-class players in all three formats as we strive to become the best team in the world.
“I would like to congratulate all the players offered agreements for the coming year. They will all play a pivotal role in England’s efforts over the next 12 months.”