Essex have handed new contracts to eight players including England all-rounder Ravi Bopara and Graham Napier.

Despite Bopara's troubles on the international stage, Essex coach Paul Grayson has revealed his delight at securing the services of the 27-year-old for at least another season.

Grayson said: "It has been a tough summer for Ravi but we want to keep him at Essex for as long as we can because of the ability he possesses.

"He is able to give some massive performances for Essex next season and I'm delighted he has signed a new contract."

Tymal Mills, Jaik Mickleburgh, Tom Westley and Ben Foakes have all been awarded new two-year deals to continue the county's policy of promoting youngsters into the senior side.

Chief executive David East said: "Successful teams flow in cycles and we now have an amazing crop of talented youngsters maturing together."

Napier, Mark Pettini and Maurice Chambers have also agreed to extend their stay in Chelmsford by two years.