Essex seamer Sam Cook admits signing a new deal at the club was one of the easiest decision he has to make.

The 23-year-old, who was born in Chelmsford signed a new one-year deal at Essex last night.

Since making his debut in May 2018 against Middlesex, he has established himself as key part of the Eagles squad.

In his 72 matches for Essex across all formats, Cook has taken 166 wickets.

This season he has been in fine form.

Prior to tonight's Vitality Blast match against Middlesex, he has taken 43 wickets across all formats. Of those 43 wickets, 32 of them have come in the LV= Insurance County Championship, at an average of 18.90, whilst the other 11 have come in the Blast, at an even more impressive 12.27.

But Cook admits the decision to sign a new deal was one of the easiest he has made.

He said: “I’m absolutely thrilled to sign an extension with this great Club.

“It was an easy decision to make and I feel like I’m having my best season to date.

“It’s an amazing feeling taking wickets for Essex and I’m pleased with how I’ve been able to contribute to the team this year.

“Essex is a top Club to be at. For me as a young bowler, I’ve got the likes of Simon Harmer, Peter Siddle and Jamie Porter to turn to for advice. They’ve all got heaps of experience and knowledge for me to pick, then there are figures like Alastair Cook and Graham Gooch.

“They’ve been and done it all on the biggest of stages for both Essex and England. Like every cricketer, I have aspirations to play for my country, and I believe Essex is the best place for me to be so I can one day follow in their footsteps.

“Since moving into the First Team I’ve been fortunate to win several trophies with the Club and create memories that will last a lifetime.

“Everyone in that dressing room is hungry for more success and with any luck over the next few seasons, we can bring some more silverware to The Cloudfm County Ground.”

Essex Head Coach, Anthony McGrath believes there is plenty more to come from the seamer.

He said: “It’s great news for the whole Club that Sam has extended his stay.

“He’s extremely reliable and has become a hugely important player in our team.

“You sometimes forget he’s just 23 as he’s been in the First Team for quite a while now and has a matureness beyond his years.

“He’s a pleasure to coach and the good news for Essex fans and Members is that there’s more to come from Sam, he’s just going to get better and better.”