Chris Jordan completed his remarkable rags to riches rise when he was awarded an England central contract yesterday.

The Sussex bowler, who was shown the door by Surrey two years ago, was one of six new players among the 12 given full-time ECB deals along with Moeen Ali, Gary Ballance, Jos Buttler, Ben Stokes and Chris Woakes.

It was a different story for Sussex wicketkeeper Matt Prior, though, who lost the central contract he had held since 2009 following a difficult 18 months due to form and fitness.

Sussex coach Mark Robinson said: “It is a fairytale story. CJ was released by Surrey two years ago and he is now centrally contracted with England.

“It is a real vote of confidence and shows that he is a big part of England’s plans for the future. Although we might see even less of him now next season at least it means we know where we stand.”