Walker extends Essex stay

Essex will be able to call on the services of Matt Walker once again next summer

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Veteran batsman Matt Walker has signed a one-year contract extension at Essex.

Walker, who joined the club from Kent in 2009, has enjoyed a solid season at Chelmsford, contributing over 1,200 runs in all forms of the game.

He has scored 677 runs in the LV= County Championship to date at an average of 36 and will hope to add to his 211 runs in the Clydesdale Bank 40 when Essex take on Somerset in this weekend’s semi-final.

Walker was also among the runs in this year’s Friends Provident t20, making 375 runs at a healthy average of 27.

The 36-year-old said: “It is a real honour to have signed for an additional year.

“I have loved my two years so far with Essex and have enjoyed working with both the lads in the dressing room and everyone else involved in the club.

“I feel my game has improved under the guidance of (head coach) Paul (Grayson) and I hope to achieve more success across all formats of the game in the years to come.”

Grayson added: “We are delighted that Matt has agreed to extend his contract for next year, he has probably been one of the most consistent performers this season in all forms of cricket.

“Matt is a terrific character to have around the place and is as enthusiastic as ever.”