Richardson gets Worcestershire contract extension

Alan Richardson, the Worcestershire seamer, has signed a two-year contract extension that will keep him at New Road until the end of the 2014 season.

Richardson joined Worcestershire from Middlesex in 2009 and had previously been released by both Derbyshire and Warwickshire. But he quickly proved his worth at New Road and, after claiming 73 first-class wickets in 2011 and helping Worcestershire retain their Division One status, he was named as one of Wisden's five Cricketers of the Year.

While Richardson will be 39 by the time the contract expires, his performances show little sign of dipping. He has claimed 30 Championship wickets this season at an average of 14.93 and remains one of the most reliable seamers on the county circuit. His advice and influence is also seen as highly beneficial to the young bowlers at the club.

"I'm delighted to have been offered the chance to continue my career at the club," Richardson said. "I've thoroughly enjoyed my time here so far and look forward to playing in a side that continues to grow and improve."

Fellow right-arm seam bowler Nick Harrison has also agreed a two-year contract with the club. The 20-year-old has only played one first-class and four List A games, but was part of the side that helped the club progress to second XI T20 finals day at Arundel.

"I am delighted to have been offered a new contract and hope to fulfil the potential the club believes I have," Harrison said. "I am proud to wear the Worcestershire badge and look forward to a successful career at New Road."

Jack Manuel has not been offered a new contract, however. The 21-year-old, who represented England Under-19s, looked a find prospect when he made his List A debut in 2010 but, after being hampered with a shoulder injury, struggled for further opportunities and played only one first-class game.