James Foster has signed a one-year contract extension with Essex to keep him with the County Championship winners for the 2018 campaign.

The 37-year-old wicket-keeper batsman was an integral part of the Essex side which secured the club’s first County Championship for 25 years last season, having featured in 283 first-class, 223 List A and 170 T20s matches over a 17-year period for his home County.

“I am delighted to be signing a new contract with Essex,” Foster said, after committing for his side’s title defence.

“The 2017 Championship season was such an exciting and emotional season, and to see the happiness on so many people’s faces was incredible.

“A real highlight for me was when the team walked out to field during the last game of the season to a standing ovation from the Chelmsford crowd.

“It is also a huge credit to the work put in by all the backroom team, coaches and staff at the Club and it has been a pleasure working with Chris Silverwood and I wish him every success for the future in his new role with England.”

Foster will also fly to Bangladesh today to join up with Bangladesh Premier League side Khulna Titans as an assistant coach.

Commenting on the opportunity, Foster added: “Since the end of the season I have been busy coaching and now have an exciting month coming up as an assistant coach with the Khulna Titans, working alongside Head Coach Mahela Jayawardene.

“I am looking forward to tapping into his knowledge, as well as the other coaches, and passing on what I learn to both Essex and Forest School when I return.”