TEENAGE batsman Dan Lawrence has signed a new deal with Essex County Cricket Club.

The 18-year-old player’s contract will keep him at Chelmsford until the end of the 2017 season.

Lawrence made his first class debut this season and is now keen to build on that.

“I’m delighted to sign a new contract with the club,” Lawrence said.

“I’d like to thank Paul Grayson for giving me my debut this year, and to John Childs for all his guidance over the years in the Academy.

“I’m always looking to improve, and I’m delighted to have the chance to do this at The Essex County Ground.”

Lawrence made his first class debut against Kent in April but announced his arrival in style at The Oval against Surrey in only his second match for the first XI.

The right-handed batsman plundered 161 runs against Surrey to become the third youngest ever centurion in County Championship history, at the age of 17 years and 290 days.

And he underlined his promise this week with 119 runs for England under-19s in their one-day international against Australia.

“This season has been a real learning curve personally, with the highlight being my century against Surrey,” Lawrence added.

“I’ve also been playing for the England U19s, which has been crucial for my development.”