Pears all-rounder Brookes signs new three-year deal

Ethan Brookes (second right) has scored 710 runs, at an average of 29.58, and taken 16 wickets, at an average of 32, in 14 first-class matches for Worcestershire

All-rounder Ethan Brookes has signed a new three-year contract with Worcestershire.

The 24-year-old joined the Pears from neighbours Warwickshire on a two-year deal ahead of the 2024 season.

That was due to expire at the end of this summer but Brookes will now stay at New Road until at least 2028.

"I am so happy to be staying put at Worcestershire," he said.

"I have made so many memories with the lads already, but I am so excited at the thought of challenging for some silverware with this group - I just want to keep developing."

Brookes is approaching 1,000 first-class runs for the Pears, striking his maiden century against Hampshire last season as the club preserved their first division status.

This summer he has scored 365 runs, at an average of 28, with a top score of 88 against Essex.

He has also picked up eight wickets.

Solihull-born Brookes has also been a key member of the Pears' white-ball sides, averaging just under 25 with the bat with an economy rate of 8.5 runs per over in 18 T20 matches.

Head coach Alan Richardson said Brookes had been "central to the success" of the side since he joined and keeping him was "an important step" in the club moving forward.