Mark Pettini extends Essex contract

Mark Pettini, the 26-year-old Essex batsman, has signed an extension to his contract that will keep him at Chelmsford until the end of the 2012 season.

Pettini has been at Essex throughout his county career, making his debut in 2001. In 2007 he took over as captain from Ronnie Irani and remained in the job until earlier this season, when wicketkeeper James Foster took over.

Though he played for England Under-19s, the closest Pettini has come to full international colours was when he was named in England's provisional squad for the 2007 World Twenty20 but he did not make the final 15. His form has tailed off recently but, freed from the captaincy, he hopes he can help Essex prosper in the coming years.

"I am obviously delighted to have signed an extension with the club," Pettini told www.essexcricket.org.uk. "I have thoroughly enjoyed my time so far with Essex and the success that we have all achieved. I look forward to the next two years, we have a very strong dressing room and we are confident that we can achieve even more success in the coming seasons."