ESSEX wicketkeeper Adam Wheater is to retire at the end of the season.

Wheater, 32, has made 380 professional appearances since his debut in 2008 during stints with his boyhood club and Hampshire.

He won the county title with Essex in 2017, the Championship and Vitality Blast double in 2019 and the Bob Willis Trophy in 2020.

Wheater, whose career haul includes 14 centuries and 450 dismissals, said: “It’s been a tough call to make, but the timing feels right and I’m pleased to be going out on my own terms.

“Not many players get the opportunity to play for their boyhood club, so to be able to do that has been a dream, and to be able to win the things we’ve won, I couldn’t have asked for more.

“I’m looking forward to whatever comes next, but until then I’m fully committed to helping Anthony McGrath and this side secure more silverware.”