Shoaib Bashir to retain ECB contract despite falling down England’s Test pecking order

Shoaib Bashir is set to retain his central contract with the England and Wales Cricket Board for the 2026-27 cycle. Despite playing only two Tests over the past 12 months, England still view the young spinner as an important option for upcoming winter tours to South Africa and Bangladesh. The ECB is expected to officially announce its centrally contracted players list next week.

Bashir has claimed 71 wickets in 21 Tests but saw his role diminish following a broken finger and England's preference for all-pace attacks under incoming coach Stephen Fleming. Additionally, the ECB is expected to reward emerging players like Jordan Cox, Emilio Gay, and Tom Banton using funds freed up by the retirements of Ben Stokes and Mark Wood.