CHRIS Silverwood has challenged Essex Cricket Club’s players to “dream big” after he was appointed the county’s new head coach.

Silverwood, 40, saw off a number of impressive candidates to secure the job, which included former Australia coach Mickey Arthur, as well as Andy Moles, Stuart Law and Paul Nixon.

Silverwood was unanimously chosen to succeed Paul Grayson by the committee, which included chief executive Derek Bowden, former England captains Keith Fletcher and Graham Gooch, and chairman Ronnie Irani.

Silverwood, who was appointed as bowling coach in 2010, led the county for the final four games of last season, winning two and drawing two, and he says he can’t wait to get started as he targets success in all formats of the game.

“I have been given a great opportunity,” he said. “I made my intentions clear from the start and said I would be applying for the position so to come through the process and get the job is a great feeling.

“Getting the support from the committee was important, and I know they are just the other end of the phone if I need their help, but the players need to trust me and they have since day one.

“I want to challenge them and I want them to dream as well. I want them to chase their dreams with me at Essex.”

The county have signed New Zealand fast bowler Matthew Quinn as they gear up for the new season.

Quinn, 22, has joined on a three-year deal subject to ECB registration and will be available in all formats of the game.

“We’ve made no secret of the fact we want to bolster the bowling attack,” Silverwood said. “He’s got all the attributes to be successful here at Chelmsford.

“I’m delighted to be joining Essex for the upcoming season and contributing to a successful changing room,” said the Kiwi. “I look forward to arriving in the UK, and meeting all my teammates, club staff and members for what will be an exciting season ahead.”

A right arm medium-fast bowler, Quinn currently plays for Auckland, where he has taken 62 first-class wickets at an average of 28.29.

Essex Eagles have also unveiled a new logo for the 2016 season.