A TEENAGER was bowled over when three cricket stars sent him birthday messages on Twitter.

Connor Simpson, 17, of Pelham Close, Dovercourt, suffers from cerebral palsy, which affects his speech and mobility.

He was sent tweets by Essex all-rounders Ryan ten Doeschate and Ravi Bopara, as well as legendary Australian fast bowler Brett Lee.

Connor was hit for six by the messages, especially from Lee, who recently broke television personality Piers Morgan’s ribs when he bowled at him in the nets.

@BrettLee_58 tweeted: “A Bday tweet for a young guy from the UK. Happy birthday mate @Conrad_ Simpson. Heard you are a champion. Wishing you all the very best.”

Connor’s mum, Lauren, said: “It wouldn’t have mattered what else he got for his birthday, as soon as he saw Brett Lee had sent him a message.

“He is normally quite reserved, but when he got the messages, he was so excited. It all comes from Ryan, who is such a lovely man – a really top, top, bloke.

“Although he cannot play sport, Connor absolutely loves it and knows everything about it.

“He has defied everything doctors have said about him and now he is 17, I can’t believe it.”

Connor has grown close to Netherlands international ten Doeschate since he first visited the County Ground in Chelmsford with his uncle Carl Jobling.

The Essex players signed Connor’s autograph book and ten Doeschate has become a friend, visiting the family home.

@rtendo27 tweeted: “Happy 17th birthday, Great Man. Think it’s going to have to be a beer next time we catch up. Hope youhave a magic day.”

@ravibopara tweeted: “Hey Connor. Wishing you a Happy 17th Birthday today.”