Morgan commits as Shah departs

Eoin Morgan's decision to sign a new deal means the Middlesex fans will see his outrageous strokeplay in the coming years

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England batsman Eoin Morgan has committed his future to Middlesex by putting pen to paper on a new two-year deal - on the day it was announced Owais Shah will depart at the end of the season.

Morgan, who started his first-class career with the club in 2004, has taken world cricket by storm since making his England debut last year.

The 23-year-old's Twenty20 and one-day international exploits saw him make his bow in Test cricket this summer, with a maiden century coming at Trent Bridge against Pakistan last month.

Middlesex director of cricket Angus Fraser is delighted to have tied the left-hander to a new contract.

“Everybody at Middlesex is thrilled that Eoin has committed his future to the club,” he said.

“The thought of seeing another county's name against his on England teamsheets is not something that appealed to me or anyone at the club.

“Middlesex are extremely proud to have played a leading role in his development and, indeed, that the club is currently supplying the England Test team with three of its cricketers.

“I believe we have the personnel at the club that will help Eoin achieve everything he wants to as a cricketer.”

Morgan said: “I am delighted to continue my career at Middlesex. I started my association with Middlesex as a 16-year-old and the club have played a major role in me getting to where I am now.

“The future of the club looks very healthy and I am looking forward to playing my part when my England commitments allow.”

Middlesex, though, have also announced they will release Shah at the end of the summer.

The 31-year-old, who has played 71 one-day internationals and four Tests for England, has been one of their most established players for many years.

However, Fraser has opted not to retain the batsman’s services as the club look to bring younger players through.

“Saying goodbye to a player who has represented your club with distinction for such a long period of time is very hard,” said Fraser.

“I have always been extremely fond of Owais, who began to emerge as a player of exceptional talent as my playing career reached its conclusion.

“It was a delight to watch him go on to play and perform well for England, but I believe Middlesex have reached a point where it needs freshening up if the fortunes of the young side are to continue to improve.

“It goes without saying that I wish him well wherever he goes and I am sure he will score plenty of runs there.

“Owais will always be welcome at Lord’s, where he has many friends and admirers.”