JOE Root has signed a contract extension with Yorkshire through until the end of 2019.

The England batsman, 25, has penned his deal in between what could be his only two Specsavers County Championship appearances of the summer.

Root scored nought and 27 in the draw against Nottinghamshire at Trent Bridge earlier this week, and he will play against Hampshire at Headingley, starting on Sunday.

He will then link up with England for their summer internationals against Sri Lanka and Pakistan.

Root is currently ranked number two in the world in Test cricket, number 10 in the world in one-day internationals and at number four in T20s.

A product of the Sheffield Collegiate club and the Yorkshire Academy, he said: “I couldn’t see myself playing cricket for any other county.

“Even though I don’t play as much as I would like for Yorkshire these days due to my international commitments, I still get a huge buzz wearing the white rose on my cap and representing my county.

“I’m delighted to be committing my future to Yorkshire.

“Yorkshire have given me a great education and foundation as a cricketer, and without the support of the players and coaches at Headingley, I wouldn’t be in the position I’m in today with England.

“The club have a huge summer ahead looking to be crowned county champions for a third successive year, and I wish the lads every success in the world in trying to achieve their dreams. It would be a monumental effort.”

Yorkshire director of professional cricket Martyn Moxon added: “Even though we don’t see him representing Yorkshire that often, when he does play he brings experience, energy and skill to the side.

“I hope he can sign off with us with a big performance against Surrey at Headingley on Sunday.”