JAMES Foster will not captain Essex Cricket Club next season.

The club announced this morning that Foster, who has been skipper for the last five years, will not be for the forthcoming season as new head coach Chris Silverwood continues his shake-up.

Essex thanked Foster for his service but said he remains a major part of Essex’s future.

Foster has been offered a new contract to extend his time at the county, since making his First-Class debut in 2000.

The club will make an announcement as to the new captain in the New Year.