Ben Walkden signs rookie deal with Lancashire
Lancashire Cricket is pleased to announce that all-rounder Ben Walkden has signed his first professional rookie contract with the Club, running until the end of the 2027 season.
The 23-year-old came through Lancashire’s age-group pathway before progressing onto the Club’s Academy. He has continued to represent the Second XI and Cumbria in National Counties cricket, earning a professional deal following a series of impressive performances.
The all-rounder, who plays for Newton-le-Willows, has enjoyed an exceptional league campaign this summer. Walkden has scored 912 runs at an average of 57, including five half-centuries and two centuries, while also taking 71 wickets at an average of 10.92. Earlier this season, he became the first player in the country to reach 50 wickets in ECB Premier League cricket.
Walkden will go straight into Lancashire’s squad for Friday’s Metro Bank One-Day Cup fixture against Gloucestershire at Emirates Old Trafford Cricket Ground.
Speaking after signing his contract, Ben Walkden said: "I am absolutely delighted to sign my first professional rookie contract with Lancashire Cricket. It is something I have been working towards for a long time, so to achieve it is a really proud moment for me and my family. It hasn't been an easy journey, but that makes me even more determined to take my opportunity when it comes.
"Having come through the Club's Academy and pathway, it means a lot to be given this opportunity. I'm looking forward to joining up with the squad, learning from the players around me and continuing to develop my game.
"We have a talented group, and I will do everything I can to contribute whenever I'm given the chance and help Lancashire win matches."
Mark Chilton, Lancashire’s Director of Cricket Performance, added: "We are delighted to offer Ben his first professional rookie contract. This is something he has worked incredibly hard towards over a number of years, and it is thoroughly deserved.
"It is a great credit to Ben that, despite missing out on a contract after leaving the Academy, he has shown real determination, fight and resilience to keep improving. His performances in club cricket, both at home and overseas over the last couple of years, have demonstrated the progress he has made.
"He is a talented all-rounder who adds depth with both bat and ball, while also giving us valuable versatility within the squad. It is important that we continue to provide opportunities for players who have progressed through our pathway. That has always been a proud tradition at Lancashire Cricket, and we are excited to see what Ben can bring to the squad over the coming seasons."
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