Having made such a major impact as Somerset’s overseas player last season, Australian batsman Chris Rogers is to return to the County Ground as a player mentor and batting coach for the 2017 campaign.

The 39-year-old was influential both on and off the field as he led the side to within a whisker of their first ever County Championship title last summer, and he returns looking to use his nous to help this year’s crop go one better.

Rogers will arrive in Taunton on March 1st – the same day the players return for pre-season training – and will be with the club until the end of June.

Reflecting on the move, Somerset Director of Cricket Matt Maynard said: “He was a huge part of what we achieved in the summer and was by far the outstanding candidate for the position.  It goes without saying that we are delighted he will be working with us again in 2017.

Somerset County Gazette:

“He knows exactly what we expect from our players and is familiar with the culture that we have created within the dressing room.  

“The young players will learn a tremendous amount from him and he’ll ensure that the more experienced guys maintain the high standards that they set last year.”

Rogers added: “Last year Matt Maynard and I floated the idea of coming back in a coaching capacity if I did retire and I’m greatly appreciative that he and the Club have given me this opportunity to work with the players and develop my own skills.

“Coaching is something I feel passionate about as well as giving back to the game and I couldn’t think of a better place to start than at Somerset and learning from the staff there.

“The Club made some significant strides last year and hopefully I can help Somerset achieve some silverware in 2017.  It’s nothing more than the supporters deserve.”