Longer deals for Conners, Melton
SAM Conners has signed a one-year contract extension with Derbyshire, keeping him at The Incora County Ground until the end of the 2023 season.
The 22-year-old has merged as arguably the pick of the crop of the young players to come through for the county this season, although injury kept him from playing any white ball cricket.
However, in the County Championship, he has so far claimed 19 wickets at an average of 26.15, including best figures of 5-83, his first five-wicket haul.
He is one of six home-grown prospects to play for the club this season, from the experienced Alex Hughes to the youthful Mitch Wagstaff.
As he returns to fitness – and after a run-out with the second team this week – he could yet feature in the last four first-class fixtures of the campaign.
Derbyshire start a four-day game away to Middlesex at Lord’s on Monday.
“We have a good crop of young bowlers and Sam has made excellent progress this season,” said head of cricket David Houghton.
“We know we can trust him with the new ball and he’s developed a really important knack for taking early wickets.
“He should be an example for all of our academy players coming through, because Sam has worked hard on his game and is now a key member of our squad.
“We’re looking forward to seeing him back out on the field before the end of the season.”
Conners came to Derbyshire from the Ockbrook & Borrowash club, where he watched and learned from former county stalwart Kevin Dean.
“Coming through the ranks at this club and now being in the first team made this an easy decision to extend my contract,” said Conners.
“The experience I’ve gained over the last few seasons has really helped me to grow as a bowler.
“Obviously, it’s been tough missing out on so much of the season with injury but I’m really excited to get back out there and pick up wickets for the team and, hopefully, contribute to some wins.”
Meanwhile, another bowler, Dustin Melton, has also signed a oneyear contract extension.
Melton, 26, has been with the club since 2019 and made his first-class debut against Australia that summer.
He has taken 13 first-class wickets, including best figures of 4-22 against Leicestershire in 2020, but a heel injury has kept him to only three appearances so far this season, all in the Championship.
Zimbabwe-born, he also continues to work towards English qualification and will be classed as an overseas player again next season.
“Dustin hasn’t played much so far this season but when he has his improvement has been there for all to see,” said Houghton.
“He’s worked hard at his game and is testing batsmen with his pace and line.
“We see Dustin as a key member of our bowling unit and we’re excited to see what he can do next year.”
Melton said: “Ever since I signed for Derbyshire, I’ve felt at home and I’m thrilled to have signed a new deal.
“The squad and coaches are great, it’s a really good environment to work in, and I want to kick on and help the club progress next season.”