Burgess ‘really happy’ to sign new contract

Michael Burgess is willing to do everything he can to ensure more silverware returns to Edgbaston.

The talented wicket-keeper, who has penned an extension until the end of the 2024 campaign, believes the side is ‘very close’ to securing a trophy after a year of near misses.

Now a senior member of the squad – he turns 30 next year – Burgess is ready to use his experience to help push the Bears over the line.

“I’m old aren’t I?” joked Burgess. “I’m 30 next year and getting on, but I’m always willing to help where I can.

“I’m really happy to sign as it’s been a developmental three years for the Club. We won the Championship two years ago and just haven’t got over the line in a couple of tournaments.

“Last year was the great escape with Liam Norwell’s heroics on the last day, so we’ve responded well to that.

“I think we’re really close and it’s exciting to know that I’ll be here next year. Hopefully, we can build on the hard work we’re putting in and get over the line.

“Nothing beats that feeling of winning a trophy and for me, that’s why we play the game. For me, nothing will beat that feeling of winning the County Championship.”

The next stop is Surrey on Sunday, one of Burgess’ old stomping grounds. As a native Brown Cap, who came through their pathway, he knows the challenge the Bears will face.

“We were in the hunt for two trophies, plus the T20, so it’s one of the years that feels a bit of a nearly year,” said Burgess after the Metro Bank One Day Cup semi-final defeat.

“We’ve got a big month in the red ball stuff with four must-win games to claim a trophy. We know how Surrey will approach it, they’re a very good side, but so are we.

“We’ve reflected and digested on what happened this week and we’re excited to get the white’s back on.

Burgess also returned to another former home in Hove earlier this year.

Looking for opportunity in T20 cricket, Burgess impressed on the south coast with Sussex and he’s hoping that the form he showed can give Mark Robinson food for thought.

“I was grateful for the opportunity and Sussex is a place I know well. I really enjoyed it,” concluded Burgess. “It was pretty easy to settle in once I’d seen some old friends and familiar faces.

“I learnt a role in the middle order which was great for me and gives me reassurance over the winter at Edgbaston. That’s where I want to be playing and I’ll take a lot from the competition.”