Essex seam bowler Sam Cook anticipates that his winter experiences overseas will enhance his performance this summer.
He participated in a T10 tournament in Abu Dhabi before taking part in South Africa's 20-over competition.
Cook has been appointed as the vice-captain of the club and has new responsibilities at Chelmsford.
Cook is a highly reliable player in county cricket, with 265 first-class wickets at an average of 19.94 and 81 in T20 matches.
In addition, he played a crucial role in Trent Rockets' victory over Manchester Originals in the 2022 final of The Hundred, taking figures of 4-18.
Cook said:
"There's lots of learning from the whole winter that I'll be bringing back to Chelmsford for the summer. A combination of new skills and new tactics."
Essex came in second place to Surrey in last season's County Championship. They will begin the new campaign with an away game against Nottinghamshire at Trent Bridge on 5 April.
Sir Alastair Cook announced his retirement in October and England opener Dan Lawrence has joined Surrey, while former South Africa Test opener Dean Elgar and wicketkeeper Jordan Cox have joined from Kent.