Trescothick agrees three-year extension

Former England batsman Marcus Trescothick has signed a new three-year deal with Somerset.

The 36-year-old opener, who made his first-team debut at his home county in 1993, is one of the finest players of his generation.

After a stress-related illness prematurely ended his England career, he returned to the domestic ranks in 2007 and was made Somerset captain in 2010.

The side have since become arguably the country's most consistent team across all formats but have also developed an unfortunate habit of finishing as runners-up - including twice in the LV= County Championship.

Trescothick's new deal, however, offers the tantalising and realistic prospect of leading his side to a maiden title.

Trescothick said: "It's always nice to sign a new contract with Somerset. I have been here at the club for 20 years now, and this is just another extension to my playing career.

"I'm delighted to sign this new contract which takes me to 40, which is my first target and we will go from there."

Somerset chief executive Guy Lavender said: "'Marcus is a fantastic captain, player and person, so we are delighted that he has agreed a new deal with the club, where he has played since he was 17 years old.

"We hope that he will continue to play for many years to come and that in the not too distant future he will achieve his ambition of lifting the County Championship for Somerset."