Ramprakash extends Surrey contract to 2009

Mark Ramprakash has committed himself to county cricket for at least another three years after extending his Surrey contract to 2009. The move was widely expected following his smashing form which helped the county bounce back to the top flight of the Championship last year, but will nevertheless delight Surrey fans. And although he will be 40 when the contract runs out, there's no reason why he wouldn't consider staying should his prolific form continue.

Ramprakash struck 2278 runs last year and became only the fifth batsman in the history of first-class cricket in England to complete a full season with an average of over 100. He spent the winter honing his dancing skills, winning Strictly Come Dancing, and then his broadcasting skills: he is currently employed by Sky as their pundit for the South Africa/Pakistan series alongside former teammate-turned-presenter Ian Ward.

But he's been working hard as ever in the nets, too. Surrey's manager, Alan Butcher, was positively glowing with the news of Ramprakash's extension: "I am delighted to have acquired the services of the best player in the country until 2009," he said. "His technical expertise, work ethic and insatiable appetite for runs are an inspiration to our dressing room. The only problem I can foresee, will be keeping him out of the salsa clubs during the summer."

Butcher seems to have written off a recall for Ramprakash to the England side, and Ramprakash admits that it's highly unlikely. Nevertheless, he wouldn't rule it out entirely: "It's happened before - players have played quite late. There are players who've had very successful times in their 30s in Test cricket: Desmond Haynes, Graham Gooch, Steve Waugh. Individuals are all different."

With regard to his Surrey deal he was his usual straightforward self, adding: "I am delighted to have extended my contract. Last season was extremely satisfying from both a personal and club perspective. Gaining promotion back into Division One of the Championship will bring a fresh challenge, one that I very much look forward to partaking in at the same time as continuing my association with the club."