Langer to skipper Somerset

Justin Langer © Getty Images

Justin Langer will continue his first-class career as Somerset captain next season.

The 36-year-old Western Australia batsman has announced his retirement from Test cricket, but Somerset have already confirmed he will return to Taunton this year.

Langer, who had a highly successful - if short - stint with Somerset in the middle of last summer is the county’s second overseas player, joining compatriot Cameron White, who led the county for much of 2006.

The left-handed opening batsman made a career-best 342 in the county championship, against Surrey at Guildford, as well as more than 400 Twenty20 runs in his mid-summer cameo last year.

Langer, who announced his Test retirement on the eve of his 105th appearance as Australia close on a 5-0 Ashes whitewash over England, wasted little time agreeing a new contract with Somerset.

Director of cricket Brian Rose reported: “I was delighted to agree a provisional contract with Justin at the end of his highly successful five-week spell with the club in 2006, which he has now confirmed.

"We are absolutely delighted that Justin is coming back to join us as captain for the whole season, initially on a one-year contract with a provision that he may come back again for a further year in 2008."

Rose is hoping Langer’s influence can help Somerset regain top-flight status in the championship.

“Over the last four seasons, Somerset have lacked consistent leadership - and this is what we expect Justin to bring, especially after his vast experience in Test match cricket and as captain of Western Australia,” he reasoned.

“His presence and influence on the side will boost our experienced players as well as helping us develop the younger players we have on the staff."