England Women's Cricket Team Announces New Contracts Ahead of T20 World Cup
England Women's Central Contracts for 2025/26
The England Women's cricket team has revealed a total of 17 full Central Contracts and four Skills Contracts for the upcoming 2025/26 season. This announcement is particularly significant as it precedes a crucial year that will feature the ICC Women's T20 World Cup hosted in England in mid-2026.
Details of Contract Changes
Among the changes, ten players have been awarded new one-year contracts, while seven players continue into the second year of their existing agreements. Leading the list is all-format captain Nat Sciver-Brunt, who recently excelled at the 50-over World Cup in India. Em Arlott and Emma Lamb are among those receiving Skills Contracts for the first time, and Linsey Smith, who impressed during the ICC Women's Cricket World Cup 2025, has secured her first full Central Contract. Notably, 34-year-old pacer Kate Cross has not been included in this year's list.
Looking Ahead to the T20 World Cup
Clare Connor, the Managing Director of England Women, emphasized the importance of these announcements as the team prepares for the prestigious ICC event next year. She stated, "This is an incredibly exciting year for England Women, and these contracts demonstrate our trust in this group of players, with a shared goal of winning the ICC Women's T20 World Cup next summer. Linsey Smith, Emma Lamb, and Em Arlott have all made significant contributions over the past year, and these contracts serve as both recognition of their achievements and a chance to further enhance their skills."
Connor also mentioned, "Kate Cross has been a remarkable player for England Women's cricket, but the selection door remains open for all domestic players. Consistent performance in scoring and taking wickets will always keep players in contention for England squads. We are eager to see what 2025/26 holds. The recent victory of India in the ICC Women's Cricket World Cup on home soil highlighted the influence of major events. The upcoming ICC Women's T20 World Cup is a tremendous opportunity, and our players will also aim to participate in a historic women's Test match at Lord's against India."
Complete List of Contracts for 2025/26
Existing Contracts
Lauren Bell, Charlie Dean, Sophie Ecclestone, Heather Knight, Amy Jones, Nat Sciver-Brunt, Danni Wyatt-Hodge.
New One-Year Contracts
Tammy Beaumont, Maia Bouchier, Alice Capsey, Sophia Dunkley, Lauren Filer, Mahika Gaur, Danielle Gibson, Sarah Glenn, Freya Kemp, Linsey Smith.
New Skills Contracts
Em Arlott, Emma Lamb, Ryana Macdonald-Gay, Issy Wong.