For the first time, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) introduced multi-year contracts, and it was expected that Ben Stokes would follow suit like Joe Root, Harry Brook, and Mark Wood (three years) or Ollie Pope and Jofra Archer (two years). However, Stokes signed only a one-year deal in October 2023.
The ECB aims to finalize central contracts before England’s October tour of Pakistan, confident that Stokes will return to lead after recovering from a hamstring injury suffered during The Hundred 2024.
According to sources, Stokes is now set to sign a two-year contract, keeping him on the roster for the 2025/26 Ashes series in Australia.
Stokes is also expected to work closely with head coach Brendon McCullum, as their partnership has led England to 19 wins in 29 Test matches.
This development follows McCullum’s own contract extension with the ECB through 2027, while the ECB is also considering extensions for other key players, including the Test vice-captain.