Wicketkeeper-batsman Ricardo Vasconcelos has signed a three-year contract extension with Northamptonshire.

The 20-year-old South African-born Vasconcelos was a key member of Northamptonshire’s County Championship Division Two this year.

‘I’ve really enjoyed the summer. It’s been great to get stuck in and its always nice to get a few runs on the board and contribute to the team,’ said Vasconcelos.

‘We haven’t had the season we’d hope for, but I’ve personally learned a lot from the guys and am really looking forward to pushing on again over the next few years.’

The talented left-hander’s prowess was particularly evident during a maiden county century in defeat to Middlesex last month.

The entertaining 140 spanned 272 deliveries and featured 20 boundaries.

‘Ricardo has impressed everybody with the quality of his batting. We took a bit of a punt on each other and the signs are things are working out very well for both parties,’ added head coach David Ripley.

‘I look forward to seeing him establish himself in our side and continue to improve with both bat and gloves.’

Vasconcelos previously played for Boland prior to signing for Northants earlier this year.

He has scored 1225 runs, including three tons, in 20 first-class matches – and averages 35.