• Stokes commits to England through 2027 Ashes

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    England captain Ben Stokes has signed a new two-year central contract, keeping him with the national side until the 2027 home Ashes series.

    The Test captain, whose previous deal had been due to expire next year, is one of 14 players handed two-year deals by the ECB, including pace bowler Jofra Archer and highly rated young batsman Jacob Bethell.

    Twelve others have signed one-year contracts.

    Stokes, 34, has a chequered injury history and has not played any cricket since July following a shoulder injury.

    But he is expected to be available for the first Test of a five-match Ashes series against Australia, which starts in Perth on 21 November.

    Jonny Bairstow’s central contract has finally come to an end, while spinner Jack Leach also misses out after falling out of favour.

    Rob Key, managing director of England men’s cricket, said the contracts reflect the depth and strength of talent available.

    “We have awarded two-year deals to our multi-format players, so we can manage their workloads responsibly and give them the stability they need to perform across formats,” he said.

    “We have also secured a number of white-ball players on longer agreements to help us plan effectively around the growing franchise calendar and ensure England remains their priority.”

    – AFP

    Photo: Clive Mason/Getty Images

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    Dylan Johnson