Former England wicketkeeper James Foster has signed a new two-year contract that will keep him at Essex until the end of the 2017 season.
The 35-year-old’s reign as captain ended just before Christmas but he will continue to be a key figure for the county across the next two years.
Foster has scored 12,499 first-class runs at an average of 37.08 and claimed 785 victims behind the stumps for Essex since making his debut in 2000.
“I am delighted to be committing myself to Essex for a further two seasons,” said Foster, who played seven Tests for England and featured in the 2009 World Twenty20 on home soil.
NEWS | Delighted to announce @JamesFoster07 has signed a new contract! https://t.co/kkyGkg6X8s #NewDealForFozzy pic.twitter.com/NRcQw4QH5s
— Essex Cricket (@EssexCricket) January 21, 2016
“I thoroughly enjoy playing but also have a huge interest in coaching and that is something I am very eager to do in the future.
“But as long as I am still enjoying playing, and still keen to improve, I would like to play as long as I can.”
Essex head coach Chris Silverwood added: “James, in my opinion, is still one of the best wicketkeepers in the world and so for us to have signed him for a further two years is fantastic.
“He’s got vast experience and is a great individual to have around the club, especially for the younger players coming through.”
Source: ECB