TOP Test stars will have contracts with the English Cricket Board next season which will double their earnings.

Up to 16 Test players and eight one-day specialists will be given lucrative deals with the ECB.

A working party, headed by Sussex chairman Don Trangmar, was set up 18 months ago to examine the issue of centralised contracts.

Trangmar revealed: "The counties have accepted the concept of England cricketers being contracted to the Board. Now we are working on the fine print and conditions of employment.

"Counties have agreed the principle of up to 16 players, to be augmented by an extra seven or eight one-day specialists. The plan is for this to be in place for March.

"A leading England player will be on a substantial contract with his county, he will get an England fee and then bonuses for winning. Put together, it means serious money.

"They will double their income, but I think that's right considering the pressure they are under."

Coach Duncan Fletcher, captain Nasser Hussain and chairman of selectors David Graveney will decide which players are awarded contracts, lasting six or 12 months.

Trangmar estimates those selected would miss an extra ten per cent of county cricket.

Ironically this could affect Sussex. Skipper Chris Adams is currently on tour with England in South Africa and international commitments already threaten to rule out the county's Australian vice-captain Michael Bevan at the start and end of next season.

Sussex Chief Executive Dave Gilbert is behind the idea of England contracts.He said: "It staggers me that counties get concerned about losing a star player to the Test team. That's what we have all got to strive for.

"The spin-offs for the club are enormous. Commercially it's a big thing and it inspires so many youngsters."

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