Thornicroft's loan deal extended

Nick Thornicroft's loan period at Essex has been extended for an extra fortnight. Thornicroft, the Yorkshire fast bowler, will now stay until July 18. And his stay could extend longer if both clubs agree.

Thornicroft, 20, featured in Essex's one championship match since he came to the County Ground, taking one wicket. He has not played any National League matches so far, and just one Twenty20, the opener, where his one over went for 20 runs.