The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) issued 39 central contracts to men's players for the 2026-27 season. Thirty of these agreements are full central contracts, while the remaining nine are designated as development contracts.
The ECB became the primary employer of players receiving these central contracts following the introduction of the system in 2000. While the ECB may pay most or all of a centrally contracted player's salary, the exact extent remains uncertain.
Marcus North stated he wants players around the England Lions team to dedicate more time to playing for the side instead of competing in franchise leagues. Zak Crawley lost his central contract during the latest renewal cycle.
Kent announced that Crawley signed a new contract with the county three days after the ECB released its list of centrally contracted players. The ECB announced women's central contracts at the end of November for the 2025-26 term.
Seventeen women's players received full contracts for the 2025-26 term, while four others were placed on 'skills' deals.
