Wednesday 28 September 2016 11:11, UK
England batsman Alastair Cook has signed a one-year contract extension with Essex, keeping him at the club until the end of the 2018 season.
The England captain, who has played for Essex throughout his 13-year career, averaged more than 90 for his county this summer - scoring 643 runs to help seal the Specsavers County Championship Division Two title and promotion.
"It was an easy decision to sign with the club for another year," the 31-year-old said. "Although I am away with England a lot, this club means a lot to me and I am grateful for the opportunity they gave me as a youngster.
"I love coming back to the club when I can and contributing to a title winning season meant a great deal."
Essex coach Chris Silverwood was delighted Cook, England's all-time record run-scorer, has again committed his long-term future to the club.
"Although Cooky is away with England a lot of the time it is still brilliant to have him back when he is available," Silverwood added. "He offers the squad a wealth of knowledge and also a weight of runs.
"Hopefully at the start of next summer he can be about a bit more and contribute to stabilising our position in Specsavers County Championship Division One."
