Essex: Reece Topley and Tom Craddock extend contracts

Reece Topley

Essex prospects Reece Topley and Tom Craddock have signed new two-year contracts with the club.

Left-arm seamer Topley, 19, has progressed through the England Development Programme to the England Lions squad.

Leg-spinner Craddock, 23, has played 23 first team games for the county.

"Reece is one of the most exciting young bowlers in the country and Tom is improving all the time," said Essex head coach Paul Grayson.

Last August, 6ft 7ins Topley was the leading wicket-taker in the Under-19 World Cup tournament in Queensland, capturing 19 wickets at an average of only 9.10 and an economy rate of just 3.17.

He also played nine Twenty20 matches for Essex last season, taking 17 wickets.

"Reece had a great season in 2012, especially in the Friends Life t20 competition. He is a dedicated and hard-working player who will hopefully go on to take many wickets for the club in the years to come."

Grayson also expects Craddock to progress this season if conditions are more in his favour.

"Tom is another young player coming from a crop of talent at the club," he added.

"Last summer was frustrating for him with the weather, but after a successful winter in Melbourne with [experienced Australian leg-spinner] Bryce McGain, I am hoping he has a good season ahead of him."