ESSEX and England opening batsman Alastair Cook has signed a one-year contract extension which will see him remain with the club until the end of the 2018 season.

The England captain played a huge part in sealing the County Championship Division Two title after scoring 643 runs in seven games at an average of 91.86.

Having come through the club's Academy, Cook will now extend his stay in Chelmsford to at least 2018.

Cook was thrilled to sign for a further year and said: "It was an easy decision to sign with the club for another year. Although I am away with England a lot, this club means a lot to me and I am grateful for the opportunity they gave me as a youngster.

"I love coming back to the club when I can and contributing to a title winning season meant a great deal."

Chris Silverwood was equally delighted to see Cook extend his stay with the club.

He added: "Although Cooky is away with England a lot of the time it is still brilliant to have him back when he is available. He offers the squad a wealth of knowledge and also a weight of runs.

"Hopefully at the start of next summer he can be about a bit more and contribute to stabilising our position in County Championship Division One."