England top-order batter Jason Roy has shut down all rumours and speculation about him cancelling his central contract with England and Wales Cricket Board to play franchise cricket. Earlier today, r eports surfaced stating that Roy is poised to sign for Los Angeles Knight Riders in the new USA-based tournament Major League Cricket.
Reports further added, Roy has reportedly been offered a contract of around £300,000 for the first two seasons of MLC, with the first edition kicking off in July 2023. The report also stated that Roy was ready to accept his probable omission from the upcoming 50-over World Cup in India.
But shutting down all these rumours, Roy shared a statement on social media talking about how playing for England has been his main priority. He then talked about his discussions with ECB which resulted in a decision of the board not to pay him if plays in the USA-based tournament. He then talked about how Major League Cricket will be a great learning opportunity for him especially as it doesn’t hinder England’s schedule with him being a single format player.
The statement said, “Following a bit of unwanted speculation over the last 24 hours, I wanted to clarify that I am not and never will 'walk away from England'. Representing my country continues to be my proudest moment as a professional cricketer. I hope to play for England for many more years, that remains my priority.”
“I've had clear and supportive conversations with the ECB about participating in Major League Cricket. The ECB were happy with me to play in the competition as long as they didn't have to pay me for the remainder of the contractual year.”
“As a single-format player with no central contract, I wanted to take the opportunity to play this competition as there are currently no scheduling conflicts with England. It benefits me as an England player to play as much competitive cricket as possible. Just to be very clear, my priority is England cricket, especially with a World Cup soon upon us. It is for me, and for any player, the greatest honour to receive a cap to play for their country.”
