Foster secures Essex future

James Foster has committed his future to Essex after signing a three-year deal to end the chances of him joining Hampshire.

He had been given permission to speak to Hampshire but has resisted any move away from his life-long club and will remain at Chelmsford. "When another club expresses an interest in you it is tough not to listen, but ultimately I did not want to leave Essex," Foster said. "I still see playing cricket for Essex as a privilege, and I will continue to give everything to the club as a player and captain."

Paul Grayson, the Essex coach, said: "I am delighted that he is committed to the club and look forward to continuing with the strong working relationship we have together. We have a great opportunity to develop our young squad for the future and I am excited by the prospect of continuing to work with James to achieve this."

It hasn't been a hugely successful season for Essex who are mid-table in both Division Two of the County Championship and Group C of the CB40 and face a fight to remain in contention for a title or promotion. They also failed to qualify for the knockout stage of the Friends Life t20.