Hick signs Worcestershire extension

Graeme Hick has signed a one-year extension to his contract with Worcestershire to end speculation that he may have moved to Derbyshire. Hick's deal runs out at the end of this season but he had expressed his wish to carry on playing into his 24th season.

Derbyshire had made an official approach to Hick, 40, but he will now remain, and in all likelihood finish his career, at New Road. He recently became the second player since the war to score 100 first-class hundreds for his county after Geoff Boycott for Yorkshire.

John Elliott, the club chairman, said: "Graeme is a legend of Worcestershire cricket and I am delighted that he is to continue his long career with us. This is very good news for all our members and supporters and will end any speculation there might have been about his immediate future."

Hick added: "I am delighted to have resolved the situation. My heart has always been with Worcestershire and I very much look forward to the next 12 months."