Key agrees new contract

Key's decision is a major boost to Kent supporters

England batsman Robert Key celebrated his selection for England's tour to South Africa by agreeing a contract extension with Kent.

The club has not revealed precise details of the new deal, but chairman of cricket Graham Johnson said they were "delighted" by the news.

"Robert has had an outstanding season with both Kent and England," he said.

"We are particularly pleased that he has chosen this moment to commit his long-term future to Kent cricket."

Key was the first batsman to reach 1,000 first-class runs this summer, prompting the England selectors to recall him for the first Test against West Indies at Lord's.

He marked the occasion by making 221 and followed that by helping steer England to victory in the third Test at Old Trafford with an unbeaten 93.

"We are at a very exciting stage of our development [at Kent] and we have a group of particularly talented young players," said Key.

"I look forward to working with them and to playing a full part in a successful future for the club."