England Cricket has announced its updated list of 39 contracted players, which includes pace bowler Brydon Carse. Carse is currently subject to an ongoing investigation by the Cricket Regulator following an incident outside a Derby nightclub in August.
Despite the investigation, Director of Cricket Rob Key expressed his belief that Carse could play for England again. Key stated on the Test Match Special podcast, "Yeah, I can do, depending what happens with the outcome of that [the Regulator charge]." Carse was arrested and then de-arrested, with Derbyshire Police taking no action, but he has since been charged by the Cricket Regulator.
The 31-year-old's two-year deal, awarded last year, runs until autumn 2027. He is available for selection but has not been part of a squad since the Derby incident, taking time away from international cricket.
In addition to player contracts, England confirmed new backroom teams. Stephen Fleming, the Test head coach, has brought in Richard Dawson, James Foster, and Eric Simons. Brendon McCullum, the white-ball counterpart, retains Sarah Taylor, Jeetan Patel, and Tim Southee, with Kevin Pietersen also joining the white-ball teams for the upcoming 50-over World Cup.
The 39 players include 30 on full central contracts and nine on development contracts. Eleven players, including Test captain Joe Root and white-ball captain Harry Brook, have been given two-year contracts. Uncapped pace bowler Henry Crocombe has also received an unprecedented two-year deal.