Kirtley signs new Sussex deal

James Kirtley has committed his immediate future to Sussex

Sussex have announced James Kirtley has signed a new contract that will keep him at the club until the end of the 2008 season.

The seamer overcame problems with his action bowling action last winter to help Sussex win the Liverpool Victoria County Championship and the C&G Trophy in 2006.

Kirtley said: “I'm delighted that Sussex has shown faith in my ability and have offered me this new two-year deal.”

“I am very grateful for the Club's support of me during the past fifteen months and I hope to be able to repay them with performances similar to those in the latter half of 2006 over the next two years and hopefully longer.”

Professional Cricket Manager at Sussex, Mark Robinson, said: “James is Sussex through and through and the type of player every coach wants on his team.”

“He responds to each opportunity with an unrivalled enthusiasm and his strength of character has ensured that he's come back fighting from what has been a difficult year for him. We are thrilled that he has committed to the Club for a further two seasons.”

Sussex also announced they have signed the biggest sponsorship deal in their history, with computer service company RDF Group for the next three years.

RDF will sponsor the whole club including the Sussex Cricket Academy, Youth, Women's and the Visually Impaired squads as well as the double-winning First Team.

Club Chief Executive, Gus Mackay, said: “We are delighted to have RDF on board, as they are part of the family already. RDF is more than just a sponsor - they really care about the Club and grass roots cricket.”