Nick Browne: Essex opening bat signs new contract for 2024 season

Nick Browne's 159 against Kent in April was his only Championship century of the 2023 season

Essex opener Nick Browne has agreed a new contract for the 2024 season.

The deal means the club do not have a find a totally new County Championship opening pair following the retirement of Sir Alastair Cook.

Left-hander Browne, 32, has scored more than 7,500 first-class runs since his debut in 2013, including 19 centuries.

"It's fantastic to stay here at Chelmsford, a place that has given me a wonderful career and some amazing memories," he told the club website.

"I was born locally, and it means a huge amount to me to be able to represent the region where I grew up and developed both personally and professionally."

Browne did not have his best summer in 2023, hitting 543 Championship runs in 14 games at an average of 24.68 as they finished runners-up to champions Surrey, and also played one match in the One-Day Cup.

"I'm really pleased we've managed to keep Nick at Essex for at least another year," said head coach Anthony McGrath.

"We've been keen to secure the futures of our most promising young players, but a key ingredient of a winning team is getting the blend of youth and experience just right."