Essex County Cricket Club can today confirm that Ryan ten Doeschate has stood down as Club Captain after four seasons leading the team.
During his tenure, Essex have risen to the top of red-ball cricket and won three titles in four campaigns. He has captained the side for 58 first-class matches during this period, winning on 33 occasions and suffering defeat just eight times.
The 39-year-old took on the role prior to the 2016 season and immediately led the Club back to Division One after claiming the Division Two title at the first attempt.
The side then went unbeaten throughout their first season back in the top-tier of English cricket, winning 10 of 14 games and claiming a first Championship title in 25 years.
In 2019, Essex once again tasted success in four-day cricket, with ten Doeschate skippering the Club to an eighth Championship title following a ‘winner takes all’ match with Somerset in Taunton.
On ten Doeschate’s decision to step down, Essex Head Coach Anthony McGrath said: “Ryan has been a phenomenal Club Captain and as Head Coach, I couldn’t have asked for any more from him.
“His commitment and dedication to the Club is second to none, and if you look at the position Essex were in before he took over and compare it to where they are now, a lot of that rise is down to Ryan.
“Now is the right time for someone else to take the reins and lead the team. It’s important to remember that Ryan isn’t stepping away from Essex, he’s still very much part of this Club and I’m sure he will continue to have a positive presence both on and off the field.”
Chairman of Essex Cricket John Faragher added: “During his time as Club Captain Ryan has shown outstanding leadership and interpersonal skills, both of which have been a major factor in the Club’s success over the last four years.
“To win Division Two and then two Championship titles in four years is a remarkable achievement and he steps down with the Club in a strong position for further success.
“He is a great ambassador for the game of cricket and especially for Essex County Cricket Club.”
Ryan has written an open letter regarding his decision to step down as Club Captain, which you can read by clicking here.
