Lucas, who arrived at the County Ground after spells with Nottinghamshire and Yorkshire, has demonstrated the ability to bowl wicket-taking deliveries on a regular basis this season.

And by raising the level of his game he has claimed more victims in County Championship cricket than any of his team-mates so far this term.

Chief executive Mark Tagg said: "David has bowled consistently well this season - especially in Championship cricket where so far this season he has taken a career best 34 wickets at an average of 28.44.

"Since he joined Northants we have seen steady improvement and we look forward to David maturing into a top quality bowler over the next two seasons."

Lucas himself added: "I am happy to agree a new contract with the Northants Cricket.

"I have enjoyed my time since I joined in 2007 on a three-month trial and for the club to offer me a two-year contract shows that they have faith in me.

"I hope to continue the form I have shown over the next two years"