RYAN ten Doeschate has signed a new deal with Essex that will tie him to the county until the end of the 2016 season.

The Dutchman was made limited-overs captain at the start of last season and led Essex Eagles to the quarter-final stages of both the T20 Blast and One-Day Cup in his maiden season at the helm.

Ten Doeschate, 34, has spent the last 11 seasons with Essex, and become a firm fans favourite – building a reputation as an explosive middle-order batsman and a reliable seam bowler.

He has scored 21 centuries with Essex, while achieving a first-class average of 46.26. He also enjoyed success in the Indian Premier League last season, winning in his time with the Kolkata Knight Riders.

Head coach Paul Grayson says Essex have retained a “key player” after ten Doeschate committed his future to the county.

“Ryan has been a fantastic servant for Essex County Cricket Club, and we are very pleased he has decided to extend his time here. He is still a key player for us in all three formats, and his captaincy of the one day team last season was excellent.”