Former English captain Alastair Cook signs an extension from Essex until 2023

London, December 1st: Former English captain Alastair Cook extends Essex for two years. Cook, England's all-time running goal in test cricket, signed a first three-year deal with Essex after retiring internationally in 2018.

Since then, the 36-year-old has played a major role in the county's consecutive Red Ball titles in 2019 and 2020, first in the county championship, followed by the inaugural Bob Willis Trophy. Cook registered 172 in the first innings of the latter success at Lord's to give Essex an early lead against Somerset and end the campaign as the leading scorer in the competition with 563 runs at an average of 56.30.

The academy's graduate holds several international records, including England's highest test run scorer (12,472), England's highest cap test captain (59) and most England test centuries (33).

Since retiring from international cricket, Cook has been instrumental in the success of Essex, contributing with key runs that helped secure the 2019 County Championship, 2020 Bob Willis Trophy and 2021 Division Two titles.

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But Essex had a rough season in the campaign that followed, failing to qualify for Division One of the County Championship, while it remained unclear whether Cook would extend the terms. 

However, Cook has chosen to keep playing for at least the next two years. Upon signing his new deal, the inaugural Essex internal media hitter said, “I've really enjoyed my cricket here in Essex since I retired internationally.” We are fortunate to have a fantastic dressing room and coaching staff, Anthony's brilliant "McGrath, and I look forward to hopefully more successful years."