RCB's fresh pick Jacob Bethell earned his first ECB central contract while Jofra Archer secured a two-year extension

Jacob Bethell has taken another significant step in his cricketing journey, earning a central contract from the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) on Wednesday. The 21-year-old all-rounder shone brightly in England's recent win over New Zealand in Christchurch, where he guided the team to victory with an unbeaten 50 off 37 balls while batting at No. 3. Bethell has had a busy year in 2024, featuring in eight ODIs and seven T20Is for England. His growing reputation also earned him a contract with Royal Challengers Bengaluru during the Indian Premier League mega auction on November 24.

England's revised contract list, initially revealed on October 31, included several updates. Jamie Smith, a promising wicketkeeper-batter, was one of seven players awarded a two-year central contract, while Bethell was placed in the development category to nurture his potential further.

In a major boost for England’s Ashes campaign in 2025, Jofra Archer’s central contract was extended by two years. The 29-year-old fast bowler, who last played a Test in 2021, has been steadily working his way back to full fitness through strong performances in white-ball cricket, hinting at a possible return to red-ball action.