Gatting extends Sussex stay

Joe Gatting showed great promise during his first season on Sussex's senior staff

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Joe Gatting has committed his future to Sussex by signing a new three-year deal, which will keep the batsman at Hove until the end of the 2012 season.

The 22-year-old nephew of former England captain Mike enjoyed an encouraging first season on Sussex’s senior staff. The former Brighton and Hove Albion footballer graduated from Sussex’s Academy in April.

He scored an impressive hundred on Sussex’s pre-season tour to Dubai and followed that up with 152 on his first-class debut against Cambridge UCCE.

Gatting became a regular in Sussex’s one-day side, playing nine games as they reached the Friends Provident Trophy final at Lord’s.

He averaged over 44 as the Sharks retained the NatWest Pro40 Division One title, top-scoring with a memorable 99 not out against Yorkshire at Scarborough.

He also helped Sussex to reach Twenty20 Cup finals day and, after they won the trophy for the first time, featured in the inaugural Champions League Twenty20.

Gatting, who hopes to help the county regain their LV= County Championship Division One status, said: “I'm delighted to sign a new deal and commit my future to Sussex. There isn’t a better place to play your cricket.

“I want to keep on improving and this is the place to do it. I’m looking forward to helping Sussex get back into the top division where they belong.”

Sussex captain Mike Yardy added: “Joe made an extraordinary start to his professional career last year and I’m hoping he’ll build upon that with a successful 2010. It’s fantastic that he has committed his future to the club.”