The Yorkshire County Cricket Club is delighted to confirm that wicketkeeper-batter Maddie Ward has signed a contract extension until 2027, elevating her to a professional deal with Yorkshire Women.
Since joining on her two-year rookie deal ahead of the 2025 season, Ward has rapidly developed into an integral member of the squad.
Earlier this season, Ward became Yorkshire’s youngest ever captain at just 20 years, 133 days old and has scored 340 runs, taken nine wickets, 11 catches and four stumpings across all formats, underlining her all-round ability.
The 20-year-old said, “I’m really grateful and honoured to have signed my first senior contract with the club. I’ve loved every second in this environment so far and I’m excited for what’s to come.
“Yorkshire have been brilliant. The support and backing from the staff and Club as a whole has been amazing. I’ve had the opportunity to really work hard and develop my skills.
“As a group we’ve played some really good cricket this season. I can’t wait to get on the field with these girls as a tier one side in 2026. It will be a different challenge but one we are definitely ready for. I’m excited to see what we can achieve.
“I will definitely do my best to repay the faith that the Club have shown in me.”
Picture by Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com
Ward’s new contract marks a significant step in her professional journey and Head Coach Rich Pyrah said he was pleased to see Ward extend her stay at Headingley.
“We’re thrilled to see Maddie sign her contract. She has become a dependable, adaptable cricketer who has stepped up into the captaincy role with real aplomb.
“Her new contract underlines our belief in her and our commitment to building a strong future for women’s cricket in Yorkshire.”
Gavin Hamilton, General Manager of Cricket added: “Maddie’s progression to a full professional deal is testament to her hard work and dedication.
“Signing her until 2027 ensures continuity for both player and club and allows us to continue nurturing her undoubted talent.
“Maddie represents the kind of athlete we want leading the next generation of Yorkshire cricketers and we’re all excited to see her develop in the coming years.”
