Former England captain Alastair Cook has signed a new deal with Essex County Cricket Club which will keep him with the county for the next three years.

Cook, who will retire from international play after this week’s final Test with India, led Essex to an unlikely County Championship title last season.

Having come through the Essex Academy, Cook made his first-class debut against Nottinghamshire in 2003.

The 33-year-old has gone on to have hugely successful international career and holds numerous England Test cricket records, including being the country’s all-time leading run scorer.

MORE: Cook retires from international cricket

Essex head coach Anthony McGrath said: “It’s great news that Cooky has committed his future to the club.

“He’s one of the best batsmen in the world and he’s so important for us both on and off the pitch. He’s a great person to have around the Club and is a great role model for the young players coming through.

“He also has the ability to change a game with his batting and that’s something everyone wants in their team.”