Essex wicketkeeper James Foster to retire at end of 2018 season
"What I appreciated most at the club was the way coaches, management, support staff, stewards and supporters have always made my family feel so welcome at the club."
Friday 14 September 2018 13:23, UK
Former England wicketkeeper James Foster will leave Essex at the end of the season and move into coaching.
The 38-year-old helped the county win the Specsavers County Championship title in 2017, while he was also part of sides that claimed the Pro40 League title in 2005 and 2006 and the NatWest Trophy in 2008.
Foster, who captained Essex between 2010 and 2015, played seven Tests and 11 one-day internationals for England and also featured five times during the 2009 World Twenty20.
In an open letter, Foster wrote: "I have really enjoyed my 19 years as a professional cricketer and it is with great sadness that I will no longer be an Essex player. It has been a real privilege to play for my home county and I am extremely proud to have represented England.
He's been the rock at Essex for all of the time I've played here, the most thorough professional and a cherished friend through thick and thin. Over the last 15 years he's been a big presence and a great example in the dressing room, we're going to miss him.
"Thank you to all the Essex players for making it such an enjoyable changing room and winning the County Championship in 2017 was one of my happiest memories.
"What I appreciated most at the club was the way coaches, management, support staff, stewards and supporters have always made my family feel so welcome at the club, for that, I am truly grateful.
"Thank you to all the coaches I have worked with during my career, especially those who have undergone shoulder reconstructions due to the amount of balls thrown at me in training over the years!
"I feel it is especially important to highlight Stuart Turner, Joe Hussain, Graeme Fowler, Nasser Hussain, Graham Gooch, Dave Houghton, Paul Farbrace, Andy Flower, Nick Wilton and Bruce French. They were all instrumental in my development at various stages within my career and they are probably unaware of the impact they had.
"A special mention must go to my mum and dad, sisters and my incredible wife and daughters for their unwavering and loyal support.
"Whilst playing has now come to an end, I am incredibly excited about the next phase of my career. I have been working extremely hard on building my coaching C.V. and experience over the last three years for various professional, franchise and international teams.
"I wish Essex CCC all the best in the future and look forward to following them as a keen fan."
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