CRICKET: ESSEX County Cricket Club says their fans can look forward to seeing Alastair Cook’s world-class ability at the Ford County Ground in the coming season.

Club spokesman Ashley Neave said: “We are very proud of Alastair, both on a team and personal level.

“He has proved he is an outstanding cricketer and is a huge asset to the playing squad.

“We look forward to welcoming him back and seeing his world-class ability in front of supporters at the Ford County Ground.”

Neave was also quick to pay tribute to the contributions of Essex and England batting coach Graham Gooch, and England coach Andy Flower, who batted at number three for Essex between 2002 and 2006.

He said: “Graham has played a huge part in the Ashes success, and is a very influential figure to the players.

“He is invaluable for our club, working alongside Paul Grayson.

“And Andy had great success at Essex and everyone here is delighted he has become one of the few coaches to win an Ashes series on Australian soil.”