England's Mark Stoneman extends contract with Surrey

Mark Stoneman (Image courtesy: Getty)

England's Mark Stoneman who is likely to open the batting with Alastair Cook in the upcoming Ashes series with Australia signed an extension to his contract with English county Surrey on Saturday. The 30-year-old -- who scored over 1,000 runs in his first season with the club after joining from Durham -- played in England's last three Tests partnering former skipper Cook in what has become a problematic spot for the side. Stoneman, whose top score in the three Test series with the West Indies was 52, said he hoped to enjoy many more fruitful campaigns with Surrey.

"I am delighted to have extended my contract," Stoneman told the county's website. It is a fantastic place to play cricket and I have thoroughly enjoyed my first season with the club. I believe over the next few years I can be part of a successful period in Surrey CCC's history," added Stoneman who was unlucky to score an unbeaten 144 in the One-Day Cup final last term and end up on the losing side.

Surrey also persuaded three other England players to commit themselves with contract extensions including another of the 16-man Ashes squad uncapped wicketkeeper-batsman Ben Foakes. The 24-year-old -- who averaged over 42 in the County Championship -- signed a contract that sees him out till 2020.

"I am grateful for this opportunity to extend my future at Surrey because I have enjoyed my first three years here greatly," Stoneman said.

England One Day specialists Jason Roy and Tom Curran -- who will hope to make it out to Australia for the T20Is and ODIs post Ashes -- were the other two to sign extensions.