MATTHEW Fisher is one of just six players to have been awarded a pace bowling development contract by the ECB.

The Easingwold star joins a half-dozen group which also includes fellow fringe England international bowlers Brydon Carse, Saqib Mahmood, Craig Overton, Jamie Overton and Olly Stone.

Pace bowling development contracts were set up in 2020, existing alongside the long-standing central contracts for established internationals, to provide the country’s best young bowlers with more ECB training ahead of future England call-ups.

Fisher has one international appearance to his name to date, featuring in England’s drawn Test with the West Indies in Bridgetown in March.

The Yorkshire seamer took the wicket of opener John Campbell for just four in just his second ball. The 24-year-old finished with match figures of 1-74.

Fisher’s domestic 2022 season was hampered by a back injury, which restricted him to just two first-class appearances.

He did manage first-innings four-wicket hauls in those outings, both against Gloucestershire – closing on 4/19 in the first meeting and 4/45 in the latter.

Fisher's Yorkshire team-mates Jonny Bairstow, Adil Rashid and Joe Root have been given annual central contracts while Harry Brook and Dawid Malan have earned increment contracts.

Rob Key, managing director of England men’s cricket said on the contract announcements: “I feel we have rewarded those players who have made a significant impact over the previous 12 months and those we expect to be part of England’s plans over the next period.

“The international game continues to evolve, and we must be mindful that we have to lead the way in player performance across the sport.

“The aim is to develop world-class players in all three formats as we strive to become the best team in the world.

“I would like to congratulate all the players offered agreements for the coming year.

“They will all play a pivotal role in England’s efforts over the next 12 months.”