Gareth Andrew pens new one-year deal at New Road

Gareth Andrew made a ton and five 50s with his Mongoose bat last season

Worcestershire fast bowler Gareth Andrew has ended speculation about his immediate future by signing a new one-year contract to remain at New Road.

The 26-year-old, signed from Somerset in December 2007, had been approached by Division Two champions Sussex.

But Andrew, who has produced some big knocks with the bat this season, has opted to sign for another season.

Young fast bowler Chris Russell, 21, has also signed a new two-year deal, tieing him the club until 2012.

Worcestershire Director of Cricket Steve Rhodes said: "Gareth showed what he can achieve with his excellent 60-ball 100 against Surrey in the Clydesdale Bank 40 League.

"With some further progression with the ball he has the potential to be a quality all-rounder."

Yeovil-born Andrew took just 23 Championship wickets in nine matches last season as Worcestershire won promotion back to Division One, weighing in with 425 runs at 32.69.

We are developing a young squad and feel Chris Russell has a bright future as part of this process

Worcestershire coach Steve Rhodes

His celebrated Mongoose bat also helped him score 249 runs in 10 CB 40 innings, the highlight of which was that swashbuckling century at The Oval on 1 September.

Isle of Wight-born Russell, who made two end-of-season appearances in the CB 40, took 46 second XI Championship wickets last season.

"I have really enjoyed my first full season with the club," he said. "I feel I have developed well over the summer.

"I look forward to working hard this winter with the rest of our young squad and fighting for a regular first team place."

Rhodes added: "Chris has done everything we have asked him to do. We are developing a young squad and feel Chris has a bright future as part of this process."