HAMPSHIRE fast bowler John Turner has been handed a development contract by the England and Wales cricket board.

The 22 year old, who was born in Johannesburg, has impressed since he made his debut for the county in the 2021 Royal London Cup.

He ended this year's Vitality Blast as Hampshire's second-leading wicket-taker after picking up 21 wickets in only 11 matches in the competition. 

He took a five-for on his first-class debut against the touring Sri Lanka development XI in 2022, before featuring in two County Championship matches in 2023, taking five wickets.

Just 70 days after making his T20 debut, Turner received his first England call-up in August but suffered a side strain during the Hundred where he was picked up as a wildcard by the Trent Rockets.

The ECB's central contract system is in place to reward players who are likely to play for the national side and it considers how likely a player is to feature in the near future.

The player is highly thought of by the ECB which is why he has been handed the new deal.

Managing director of England men's cricket, Rob Key said: "We are rewarding those players who we expect to make a significant impact over the coming years playing for England.

"It is great news and a credit to the players for demonstrating their commitment to English cricket in the ever-changing landscape of the sport.

"I would like to congratulate all the players who have been offered contracts. They will play a pivotal role in England's future over the next few years."

Multi-year contracts have been awarded for the first time since central contracts were established in 2000.

The ECB has worked closely with the Professional Cricketers’ Association and Team England player partnership on behalf of the players to reach an outcome for all parties.

In total, 29 players have received central contract offers - 18 England multi-year central contracts, eight England annual central contracts, and three England development contracts.