Whilst having good players who play little international cricket is good, I believe I'm correct in saying that counties don't have to pay wages to players with Central contracts? Which means whilst you may only be able to play them a few times a year, they are not a burden on your finances.
Yes it's correct, the club also receives financial compensation from the Ecb for that player, so financially the club benefits. But I really meant in terms of on field results clubs are best having players just below international standard, or ex internationals I suppose.