Brooks stays on Northants books

Jack Brooks has taken 43 LV= County Championship wickets at an average of just over 20 to help Northants lead Division Two

Coveted seamer Jack Brooks has turned down interest from other clubs to sign a two-year contract extension with Northamptonshire.

The 27-year-old’s deal was due to expire at the end of the summer but he has decided to stay at Wantage Road.

Brooks, who has taken 43 LV= County Championship wickets at an average of just over 20 to help Northants lead Division Two, joined from minor county Oxfordshire ahead of the 2009 season.

He said: “I’m very happy to know that my future lies here at Northants for the next two years.

“The club has been great to me and I’m keen to repay their investment by helping Northants gain promotion to the top flight of the championship and challenge for trophies across all competitions in the coming months and seasons.

“I also believe this is the best place for me to continue to develop my all-round game as I strive to further my career.”

He added: “It’s very flattering to be courted by other clubs and I thank them for their interest but I’ve made this decision for purely cricketing reasons.

“I believe the club is going places. There are some talented youngsters here and I know that I’m one of the players the club is looking at to take the club forward. I’m looking forward to the challenge. “

Head coach David Capel said: “This is an important signing for Northants and one that is mutually exciting for Northants supporters, and also for Jack himself.

“He’s done very well for us this year and it’s good that he is marrying his own ambitions with those of the club. It’s very pleasing that he has chosen to sign on for another two-year period.”