Chambers is the latest squad member to commit to the club

Essex have handed a new contract to paceman Maurice Chambers, tying the 20-year-old to the county until 2009.

The Jamaican-born bowler, who received his citizenship in July, is recovering from a stress fracture of the spine but should be fit to start the new season.

"He is a player of great promise and talent and can play a big role in 2008," said chief executive David East.

Chambers will also attend the ECB's fast-bowling skills set at the National Cricket Centre in Loughborough.