The highly-rated wicketkeeper responded superbly to being omitted from the England team earlier this year by returning to Notts and averaging more than 50 in their Championship-winning season.

The 26-year-old has played the last seven seasons at Trent Bridge and his new contract keeps him here until the end of 2007.

Director of Cricket Mick Newell said: "I think everyone would agree Chris is the best gloveman in the country and his keeping this season has again been world class.

"He moved up our batting order to show the England selectors he has what it takes and he's done that by scoring two hundreds and six half-centuries.

"Chris is an integral part of the Notts side and I am delighted he has agreed to remain so for the next three years at least."

Read added: "This has been a fantastic season with the team achieving promotion in both the totesport League and Frizzell Championship and I think it can be the stepping stone to further success in the future.

"All the players are looking forward to the challenge of Division One cricket in both competitions.

"I hope that I can have another successful season next summer and a good winter tour to South Africa to keep me in contention for a recall to the England team."