Ryan ten Doeschate has extended his Essex contract by two years, to take him up to the 2010 season.

Ten Doeschate, 27, enjoyed his best year with the bat to date in the Championship in 2007, scoring 845 runs at 42.25 with three centuries.

“I’m happy to sign this contract because it shows Essex still want me and I’m part of their long-term plans,” he told the club website. “Now my sights are set on improving once more in 2008. My first goal is to work on my bowling – which I know I’ve said before but I believe I can still make progress with it – so that I can aim to score 1000 Championship runs and take 20 Championship wickets next season.

“In terms of one-day cricket I was happy with my bowling last season but need to produce more with the bat next year.”