The 28-year-old wicketkeeper-batsman, who is in his second stint at Chelmsford after re-joining from Hampshire at the end of the 2016 season, played a central role in all formats in 2018.

Wheater, who has 11 centuries and 35 fifties in first-class cricket, said: “I am delighted to commit my future to Essex County Cricket Club.

“Since returning to Essex, I have been fortunate enough to experience success and I am keen, as we all are, to continue putting trophies in the cabinet.”

Head coach Anthony McGrath said: “Adam is an experienced campaigner and has shown us his capabilities behind the stumps and with the bat. After the retirement of James Foster, it is now time for Adam to make the position his own and highlight to everyone what a valuable performer he can be.”