Highly rated bowler Tim Murtagh has signed a new three year contract with the Middlesex County Cricket Club.

The new deal means that Murtagh will be available to play for Middlesex until at least the end of the 2016 English Domestic Cricket Season.

Since signing for Middlesex from Surrey eight years ago, Murtagh has become one of the most effective and leading fast bowlers in County Cricket.

In total, the 32 year-old has taken more than 550 wickets in all forms of cricket, and in 2013, he was the third highest LV=CC Division One wicket-taker with 60 wickets.

In fact, in the past seven seasons of first class cricket, no English bowler has taken more wickets than Murtagh, who has claimed 410 scalps at an average of 24.77.

Murtagh's excellent performances for Middlesex and his Irish ancestry have been rewarded by selection for the Ireland National Cricket Team, who he is now a regular member of.

 

Middlesex CCC's managing director of cricket, Angus Fraser, said: "It is great news for everyone at Middlesex CCC that Tim has committed his future to the Club.

"Tim has been a pivotal figure in the progress Middlesex CCC has made in the past three seasons and we believe he still has plenty to offer.

"It is not only Tim's contributions on the pitch that make him such a valuable player. He sets the right example and plays the game the right way - hard but fair - and enjoys what he does. 

"Tim may not be the quickest bowler in county cricket but he is as skilful and competitive as any bowler around. He is selfless, and there is not a day when he gives the team anything less than 100 per cent. For someone responsible for running a sporting team, you can ask for no more."