Essex and England opening batsman, Alastair Cook has signed a new two-year contract with the club.

Cook, 31, has played 79 First-Class matches since making his debut in 2003 and has been an instrumental part of the team during the start of the 2016 season.

Cook played in Essex’s first four matches against Gloucestershire, Sussex, Northamptonshire and Worcestershire, hitting a total of 523 runs. The England captain has hit three centuries in 2016, and is in fine form ahead of the Sri Lanka series, which begins later this month.

Head Coach Chris Silverwood, was delighted that Cook has signed a new deal with the club, “To have some of Alastair’s qualities in the squad for the opening matches of the season has been a real boost.

“He was with us throughout pre-season and it has been great to have him around the Club, especially the experience he passes on to younger members of the squad during training on a day-to-day basis.

“We know that his England commitments take up a vast amount of the season but when available he has shown how he can further strengthen our batting line up, and it’s great he will be with the club for another two years.”

Cook was pleased to sign a new contract with the club, “It’s great to sign with Essex for another couple of years and I believe there are exciting times ahead for the club under the new head coach.

“I’ve been at Essex for all of my career, since making my debut in 2003 and I hope to continue playing here for as long as possible.”