Mitchell agrees to extend his contract with Worcestershire

The 23-year-old all-rounder had an impressive end to the season in what was a disappointing four-day campaign for the New Road outfit.

County chief executive Mark Newton believes that the Evesham-born opener can star for Worcestershire for the next 10 years.

"I'm a Worcestershire lad and I want to play for the club for many years to come," said Mitchell.

"I feel that with the way that I have performed in the last few championship games I have established myself at the top of the order.

"I want to help Worcestershire bounce straight back."

Mitchell, who averaged 43.33 in eight LVCC innings and 19.33 with the ball in five matches, had a contract that did see him through to the end of the 2008 campaign, but the New Road side moved quickly to secure his immediate future with another year.

"Daryl is a player who can be around for the next 10 years," said Newton. "We are delighted that he has signed."

Mitchell added: "It is nice to have that little bit of extra security and, if I can keep performing the way that I have done, then hopefully I can keep my first team place."

Worcestershire are awaiting news of Ray Price's decision on whether to accept a new one-year contract, while Richard Jones and Josh Knappett have both verbally agreed on deals for the new campaign.

"As well as the contracts we have offered to Ray, Richard, Josh and Daryl, we have offered three players extensions to their current deals," said Newton. "Hopefully we can get everything wrapped up in the next few days."

Newton says there have been no developments on the club's bid to sign Simon Jones but things may become a little clearer next week.

The 28-year-old Welshman is likely to meet with Glamorgan's new cricket manager Matthew Maynard to discuss whether he will stay at Sophia Gardens next season.

The 2005 England Ashes hero held informal talks with New Road director of cricket Steve Rhodes last weekend.