Ryan ten Doeschate will remain with Essex until the end of next season after penning a one-year contract extension with the county.

The 38-year-old has had another impressive campaign, averaging 38.55 in the County Championship, with Essex finishing third in Division One behind Surrey and Somerset.

The Dutchman joined Essex back in 2003 and has become a popular figure with both his team mates and the fans at The Cloudfm County Ground.

In 2016 - his first season as captain - ten Doeschate led the club back to Division One. The following year he and his team defied all the odds to clinch a first County Championship title for 25 years, with ten Doeschate playing a vital role in the success.

And ten Doeschate says he has never felt closer to the county.

“My affinity for Essex just grows stronger and I’m really pleased with the way the team is developing and the direction the club is taking,” he said.

“We’re continually striving to improve and I’m looking forward to the challenges we’ll face, and I feel I can still offer value to this team.”

And head coach Anthony McGrath said he was also pleased his captain had agreed to remain at Essex,

“Tendo is a massive player for us, both on the field and in the dressing room, and I’m delighted he’s staying for another season.

“He’s a natural leader and has led this team to some fantastic triumphs in recent years and hopefully there will be more to come.”