"I'm delighted that Sussex has shown faith in my ability and have offered me this new two-year deal," Kirtley said. "I am very grateful for the club's support of me during the past 15 months and I hope to be able to repay them with performances similar to those in the latter half of 2006 over the next two years and hopefully longer.'

Sussex's cricket manager, Mark Robinson, said: "James is Sussex through and through and the type of player every coach wants on his team. He responds to each opportunity with an unrivalled enthusiasm and his strength of character has ensured that he's come back fighting from what has been a difficult year for him. We are thrilled that he has committed to the club for a further two seasons."