New Derbyshire deal for Whiteley

Ross Whiteley has capped a fine season by signing a new three-year deal with Division Two champions Derbyshire

The 24-year-old is the first player from the Falcons' championship-winning side to commit to a new deal.

Whiteley, who is a graduate of the club's Academy, scored 498 runs and took 20 wickets in first-class cricket in 2012, as well as catching the eye with a fine unbeaten half-century versus South Africa in August, and he was called up to England's team for the Hong Kong Sixes.

The big-hitting all-rounder played a critical hand in the title clinching victory over Hampshire with match figures of 4 for 43 and unbeaten scores of 57 and 38.

He said: With a championship winner's medal and an international call-up, followed quickly by a new contract that illustrates the club's faith in me, it's fair to say I'm a very happy cricketer.

"To achieve something so special alongside such a great group of guys in 2012 was a real career highlight and I can't wait to come back and get stuck into First Division cricket next summer."

Head Coach Karl Krikken said: "It's great to be able to secure the services of Ross for the next few seasons and we're working behind the scenes towards more new contracts in the near future.

"Ross is a rapidly developing home grown cricketer who has come of age during the past two seasons and has the potential to achieve great things during his future career with the Club. He is a great advert for our Academy system."