Young leg-spinning all-rounder Luc Benkenstein has committed his future to Essex after signing a contract extension until the end of the 2027 season.
Benkenstein, who still does not turn 20 until November, has extended a stay at The Cloud County Ground which began with his debut against Durham in 2021.
He has taken 11 List A wickets at 17.90 apiece since, and this year has broken into the Eagles’ T20 side too, making 11 appearances and scoring his maiden half-century in the format against Hampshire Hawks.
Towards the end of last season, Benkenstein earned international honours with selection for England Under-19s, eventually earning a place in the Three Lions’ squad for the Under-19 World Cup in January.
He has scored 342 Youth ODI runs for his country, with two half-centuries and a top score of 102, while his leg-breaks have brought him ten international wickets at an average of 28.90.
“I’m delighted to extend my contract here,” said Benkenstein. “It’s been a fantastic experience so far, and I’ve loved being able to show everyone what I can do while developing my skills at the same time.
“Earning a spot in the T20 side was particularly special recently, and I’ve always looked to repay the faith shown in me with the performances I know I’m capable of.
“Now, my focus is on keeping going to ensure I can become the best cricketer I can, and I’m confident in saying this is the right place for me to do that!”
Essex Director of Cricket, Anthony McGrath, added: “It’s very pleasing to be able to extend Luc’s stay here. He’s an extremely promising young cricketer with a strong skill-set.
“His performances in the 1st XI have more than merited this extension, and as a coaching group, we’re excited to keep working with him to mould him into an even better player than he is already.”
School’s out, cricket’s in: 50-over cricket in Chelmsford this summer
The competition has not only recently proven itself to be wide open and highly competitive, but also a breeding ground for the next generation of elite cricketers.
With all four matches set to take place during the school summer holidays, each fixture makes a perfect family day out in the heart of Chelmsford.
Wednesday 24 July, 11:00am: Essex v Warwickshire – buy here
Wednesday 31 July, 11:00am: Essex v Leicestershire Foxes – buy here
Sunday 04 August, 11:00am: Essex v Glamorgan – buy here
Friday 09 August, 2:00pm: Essex v Surrey – buy here
Friday 26 July, 11:00am: Essex Women v Kent – buy here
Wednesday 14 August, 11:00am: Essex Women v Sussex – buy here
