Worcs sign Cox on four-year deal

Cox hit 61 for Worcestershire on his first-class debut

Worcestershire's teenage wicketkeeper Ben Cox has signed a four-year contract with the New Road club.

The 17-year-old was allowed out of lessons at Bromsgrove School to make his debut for the county against Somerset at Taunton in September.

Cox will finish his A-levels next summer before joining up with the club.

Director of cricket Steve Rhodes told BBC Hereford and Worcester: "It's a decision we are delighted about as he is a product of our academy."

He added: "He is a very good athlete and has chosen cricket as his future sport.

"He showed real character on his debut and I look forward to working with him over the next few years."

I am very excited for the coming season and look to further my development and to perform to the best of my ability

Ben Cox

Cox, who is also rated as a top-class rugby player, said he was looking forward to playing cricket at the end of his school term.

"Being a local lad and having played in the youth set-up and academy, I would like to thank the club, particularly Steve Rhodes and Damian D'Oliveira, for giving me this opportunity," he said.

"I am very excited for the coming season and look to further my development and to perform to the best of my ability and in the best interests of the club."

Worcestershire are also expected to announce the signing of an experienced wicketkeeper to take the place of Steve Davies after he left to join Surrey.

Steve Adshead had been linked with a return to New Road, but Rhodes ruled out a move for the Redditch-born gloveman on Tuesday following his release by Gloucestershire.