The ECB on Tuesday announced England Women’s Central Contracts for the 2023-2024 season. One year contract has been awarded to eighteen players who have contributed to the growth of England cricket. In the announced list, newbies Maia Bouchier & Danielle Gibson found a place for themselves. They received their maiden central contracts. On the other hand, bowlers Mahika Gaur and Lauren Filer & wicket-keeper batter Bess Heath have received development contracts. These are the contracts that are awarded to the players whom the board thinks will play a crucial role in the enrichment of women’s cricket in India.
The mentioned contracts will last until October 31, 2024. The contracts have several new clauses to help players. These clauses are remuneration advancements including enhanced family provision entitlement, a bonus structure that rewards success against higher ranked oppositions, increases to the value of retainers, and pay parity with England’s men’s team.
What does the Director of England Women’s Cricket say?
Jonathan Finch, the Director of England Women’s Cricket, emphasized the significance of Central Contracts for players deemed pivotal over the next year and beyond. As the team faces an unprecedentedly busy international cricket period, the selected group aligns with the demands of the upcoming multi-format schedule.
Further Recognizing the contributions of Maia Bouchier and Danielle Gibson during the summer, Jonathan acknowledged them as vital players for England’s future endeavors. Speaking about the introduction of development contracts, Jonathan signifies it as a crucial move, enabling support for a broader player base in their continuous growth. Finch also said that by collaborating closely with regional bodies, the focus is on managing players’ development and workloads effectively.
Jonathan further said that after a historic Ashes summer, the upcoming 12 months promise to be an exciting cricket calendar. The identified group of players is envisioned to lay the groundwork for the team’s journey through various bilateral series, including the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup.
England Women’s Central Contracts 2023-2024 Season:
Tammy Beaumont, Lauren Bell, Maia Bouchier, Alice Capsey, Kate Cross, Charlie Dean, Sophia Dunkley, Sophie Ecclestone, Tash Farrant, Danielle Gibson, Sarah Glenn, Amy Jones, Freya Kemp, Heather Knight, Emma Lamb, Nat Sciver-Brunt, Issy Wong, Danni Wyatt
England Women development contract list:
Bess Heath, Lauren Filer, Mahika Gaur
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