SOUTHERN Vipers batter Maia Bouchier has been awarded an ECB central contract for the first time.

The 24 year old has featured 25 times for England since making her international debut against New Zealand in 2021.

She has scored 317 runs in 17 innings on the international stage and she has a career best of 95 which came in her second one-day international innings.

Regional director of women's cricket, Adam Carty said: "We have always seen an international pedigree in Maia’s game.

"Following what has been a fantastic season in numbers with the bat across three formats in 2023, I am delighted that she has received her just reward.

"She is a great person with an outstanding work ethic. I am sure she will be a pivotal player for England for many years to come."

There have been four other Southern Vipers players who have had their central contracts renewed with Danni Wyatt, Lauren Bell, Charlie Dean, and Freya Kemp all remaining contracted.

Carty continued: "The Vipers are very proud of the players who have performed so admirably in orange and black, who have gone on to make their international bow in recent years.

“We look forward to supporting them as they continue to do great things for both country and we very much hope, club, in 2024.”