ED BARNARD, Jack Haynes and Josh Tongue have signed contract extensions with Worcestershire and head coach Alex Gidman says the trio have a crucial part to play in the county’s future plans.
All-rounder Barnard, 24, who has taken 187 First Class wickets to date, has extended his contract for a further year until the end of the 2022 season.
England under 19 batsman Haynes, who scored his maiden first class 50 against Gloucestershire at Bristol last week, has signed for an additional year until the conclusion of the 2023 season.
Paceman Tongue, 22, whose six wickets in the game against Gloucestershire in the opening round of the Bob Willis Trophy were an important part in an eight-wicket success, has committed himself to Worcestershire for an extra two years, also until the end of the 2023 season.
Gidman said: “They are all very exciting young cricketers and we are trying to build something for the future and these three are a part of that.
“It’s great for the club and the team they want to continue their careers with us.
“They are all at different stages of their careers, but we’ve identified them as a part of our group and we are really looking forward to seeing what they do in the near future and longer term.
“Every team needs a strong core of players who are going to be consistent performers for the team and, with the current experienced players we’ve got, along with Gareth Roderick, we are developing a good squad.”
Worcestershire Cricket Steering Group chairman Paul Pridgeon said: “I’m delighted we’ve been able to agree contract extensions for Ed, Jack and Josh.
“It puts the icing on what has been a great week with the team performing so well at Bristol.
“The more of our quality players we can secure on a longer-term basis the better in terms of planning for our future.”