RYAN ten Doeschate has been named Essex’s new one-day captain.

The Dutch international will take over the duties of skippering the side in the 50-over format and in Twenty20 matches from James Foster.

Wicket-keeper Foster will remain as the captain for Essex’s championship matches.

Head coach Paul Grayson says the changes are a “move forward” for his side.

He said: “Ryan has got huge experience of playing one-day cricket around the world, particularly Twenty20.

“We feel it is a good opportunity to bring him into a leadership role and I certainly think that this is a positive move forward with a lot of counties now opting to split the captaincy.

“This gives James the opportunity to really concentrate on his play in one-day cricket as it is a tough job to keep wicket, bat and captain the side. I know James supports Ryan in his new role and will continue to do so throughout the season.

“I’ve spoken to Ryan and he is really excited at the prospect of captaining the team. He’s got some new fresh ideas and I think that’s good for the dressing room and I look forward to working with him.”

Ten Doeschate, 33, has made more than 200 one-day appearances for Essex in List A and Twenty20 competitions.

It is the second major change at the County Ground this week after the news that assistant coach Matt Walker was leaving to join rivals Kent.

Chris Silverwood has been promoted from coaching the seconds team to Grayson’s new number two.

Essex reached the finals of the Twenty20 competition last season and were second in Group B of the then 40-over competition.