Read and Franks agree new deals

After their relegation from Division One of the County Championship last season, Nottinghamshire had a double dose of good news today after Chris Read and Paul Franks both agreed new two-year deals.

Read, who is currently touring Sri Lanka with England, moved from Gloucestershire to Nottinghamshire six years ago, and has since emerged as one of the leading wicketkeepers in the country. "I've been at Notts for some time now and feel I'm an integral part of the squad, so I want to stick around for a while yet and try to make things happen at Trent Bridge," he said. "I may not play much domestic cricket next season and only my performances for England will determine what happens on the international scene. But Nottingham is my home and Notts is my club, so whenever I step out on the field for them I will give 100 per cent.

"No-one involved with Notts - players, coaches, members or supporters - was happy with what happened last season and I want to help put things right and start winning games again."

Franks, who played one one-day international for England against West Indies in 2000, came up through the youth system and made his Nottinghamshire debut at 17. "Trent Bridge is the place where I've always played my cricket and I definitely want that to continue," he said. "We are facing a big challenge to take the team forward and put last season's disappointments behind us and I want to play a massive part in making that happen."

He also cited the new signings - Mark Ealham and Ryan Sidebottom - as another reason to stay. "We've brought in some excellent players over the winter and are beginning to see the core of what could be a very good team emerging - that makes me confident Notts will be a great place to play next season and beyond."

Mick Newell, the director of cricket, said: "From my point of view it's extremely encouraging that two of our most talented players have agreed to extend their deals at this stage. We are working hard to get back on track and it's good that players of this calibre are confident enough to stay here and help turn things around."