Denly extends his contract through to the end of the 2011 season

The clubis pleased to announce that batsman Joe Denly, 23, has signed a new extended contract with the division two LV= County Champions.

The right-hand opener, who made his England one-day debut last year, has penned a deal running until the end of the 2011 season and becomes the 11th player to extend his stay at St Lawrence since the end of last season.

Commenting on the news, Denly said: “My heart is with Kent County Cricket Club, so I“m delighted to sign this new deal. I love the club, the fans and the county so I could never say no to staying here.”

Kent“s team director, Paul Farbrace, added: "We are all delighted that Joe has chosen to extend his deal for the next two seasons. He is a key part of what we are trying to do here. Negotiations went very well throughout and I would like to thank Joe“s agent, David Fulton, for the active role he played in the discussions.”

Acting chief executive officer, Jamie Clifford, said: “Joe is a cricketer with a bright future and I am delighted that he has chosen to continue his career here at Kent. We have all enjoyed watching his progress from Kent Young Cricketer to England international. With most of our senior players now under long-term contracts, this is an exciting time to be a supporter of Kent cricket.”