Kirtley and Lewry commit to Sussex

James Kirtley's appetite for the game remains fierce, according to Mark Robinson

Sussex have secured the services of veteran seamers James Kirtley and Jason Lewry for a further year.

Former England paceman Kirtley, 33, and 37-year-old Lewry have signed new contracts keeping them at Hove until the end of next season.

Both played key roles in Sussex’s County Championship triumphs in 2003, 2006 and 2007 and, though not as productive as in previous years, they proved their worth once again this summer.

Lewry, who made his Sussex debut in 1994, topped the county’s wicket-taking charts with 41 victims in the championship, which included his 600th first-class victim, and he will play only four-day cricket next season.

Kirtley’s tally of 16 wickets in one-day competitions was better than any of his colleagues, and cricket manager Mark Robinson is delighted to keep them at Sussex.

“It’s great to have these two seasoned campaigners on board for another year,” he said.

“In Jason we’re lucky to have one of the best new ball bowlers in the country still with us, along with his appetite to win further trophies.

“James’ proven expertise in one-day cricket, of which there are three competitions, and his desire and hunger still to make a mark in four-day cricket, makes him a valuable member of our squad.”