Ben Stokes 'completely committed' to England despite contract snub

England managing director Rob Key insists that Test captain Ben Stokes is “completely committed” to playing for his country despite turning down a three-year contract.

Stokes has instead signed a one-year central contract extension, with the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) revising its approach as they look to guarantee the availability of star names in the face of big-money franchise cricket offers.

The likes of Harry Brook, Joe Root and Mark Wood are the only players to be given three-year central contracts as part of a new multi-year system.

Fast-bowler Jofra Archer, despite his injury issues, and spinner Adil Rashid, 35, are among those on two-year deals, which also includes limited-overs captain Jos Buttler and Jonny Bairstow.

Batter Dawid Malan, who missed out on a full deal last year, was given a one-year contract off the back of his red-hot form in recent months, while veteran bowler James Anderson was also handed a one-year deal.

But Stokes turning down a longer-term contract is an interesting call with Key admitting the 32-year-old is looking to secure a better deal next year.

“By no means is it Ben Stokes saying, 'I don't want to play for England',” Key told BBC Sport.

“All he talks about is being completely committed to playing for England and also captaining that Test team – planning for India, planning for the Ashes, planning for West Indies and Sri Lanka next summer.

“I don't think it has crossed his mind not playing for England for the next four, five, six years.

“Ben, quite rightly, feels when the next memorandum of understanding starts and the contract cycle changes he will be in a stronger position. Other players have gone for that security.”

All-rounder Stokes is currently out in India for the