Surrey sign Meaker and Murtagh

Surrey have signed Stuart Meaker and Chris Murtagh, two of their young hopefuls, for 2008. Gary Wilson, the young wicketkeeper, has also extended his contract by two years.

Murtagh, the younger brother of Tim, who left Surrey in 2006, has been part of the Surrey staff for the last three years while continuing his studies at Loughborough University. He earns his first full contract after a prolific season for Surrey seconds this year, when he notched up 503 runs at 71.85.

Meaker, an 18-year-old fast bowler, spent time at the Surrey Academy last winter which earned him a place on Surrey's pre-season tour to Mumbai in March. Earlier this year he was also selected for England Under-19s for two Tests and three one-dayers against the touring Pakistan Under-19s.

Wilson was signed by Surrey in 2006 and enjoyed a solid season for Surrey seconds this year.

"Gary had an excellent start to his career at Surrey," Alan Butcher, the Surrey cricket manager, said. "He is a positive addition to any dressing room and a further two years is just reward for the hard work he has put in.

"Hard work has also been a by-word for Chris and Stuart who have both made excellent progress this year. Chris has been prolific in the second XI for the last three seasons while Stuart has forced his way into England's Under-19 World Cup squad. They both fully deserve these opportunities."