Read in for the long haul at Notts

Chris Read's sparkling batting from seven kept Nottinghamshire in the hunt for the 2009 championship title well into the season

Nottinghamshire captain Chris Read has signed a three-year extension to his existing deal at Trent Bridge, tying him to the club until the end of the 2013 season.

The former England wicketkeeper was the only Nottinghamshire player to pass 1,000 runs in the LV= County Championship in 2009 with 1,203 runs in all from number seven.

The 31-year-old was often called upon to rescue his side from a top-order collapse, and was a major factor in ensuring Notts finished second in Division One, earning the club prize money of £225,000.

Read said: “I didn’t need any assurances before signing this deal because I share the views that are held around Trent Bridge about the right direction in which to move the team.

“We’ve had two good years in the LV= County Championship and we want to maintain our form whilst making significant improvements in the one day competitions.

“We’ve recruited some young players who may lack experience but have good ability and they will play an important role, as will the core of experienced players who are already committed to Notts.”

Read’s new deal makes him the first Notts player to commit to the 2013 season with Samit Patel, Mark Wagh and Neil Edwards signed until the end of the 2012 season.

A hugely talented gloveman and unorthodox middle-order player, Read won 15 Test caps and 37 in limited-overs cricket.

“Chris approached us with a view to securing his future with an extended contract and we were very keen to oblige,” said Notts director of cricket Mick Newell.

“His wicketkeeping has always been exceptional and to have a number seven batsman who can bat at his standard is a huge asset to the team.

“He has matured as a captain and he has a big part to play for us over the next four seasons.”