New contracts for Surrey quintet

Mark Ramprakash and Mark Butcher

Surrey captain Mark Butcher and leading batsman Mark Ramprakash have agreed new two-year contracts.

Similar offers have also been accepted by former skipper Jon Batty and seamers Tim Murtagh and Jade Dernbach.

Youngster Rory Hamilton-Brown has been awarded a three-year deal after two Totesport League matches this summer.

"All these players have an important part to play in the next few years if we are to rebuild successfully," said coach Alan Butcher, the father of Mark.

Surrey's main goal in 2006 is to win promotion back to Division One of the County Championship.

But they will also be looking for significant improvement in the one-day game as well after finishing seventh in Totesport League Division Two.

Skipper Butcher, 33, missed a large part of the 2005 season because of a wrist injury but he and Ramparkash, 36, will be key figures.

However, Butcher Sr said: "I'm confident in every player's ability and I'm sure they will do Surrey proud.

"These signings show our commitment to blend youth and experience."