Kent Cricket have reappointed Rob Key as captain for 2015 while batsman Brendan Nash will also be back at the club next season.

The 35-year-old right-hander will be entering his 17th First Class season with the club in 2015, having made his debut in 1998.

The opening batsman took over the captaincy in 2006 from David Fulton and the 2013 season, during which James Tredwell was in charge, was the only season since in which Key has not led the side.

Key has made 15 Test appearances as well as six limited overs appearances for England aswell as scoring more than 27,000 career runs for Kent.

Key said: “I am delighted to be re-appointed Kent captain for 2015. It is an honour to lead the club at such an exciting time on and off the field.

“The young lads coming through our Academy are playing an increasing role and it’s great to see Kentish guys Adam Riley and Sam Billings get England recognition this winter and I hope there’s a few more in contention in our dressing room.”

The 2014 season saw Key score just 561 runs in LV= County Championship Division 2 cricket and 88 in the Royal London One-Day Cup at an average of less than 22, however he did add nearly 400 T20 runs at an average of 35 in 12 appearances this summer.

Kent's Chairman of cricket Graham Johnson said: “Rob is a stand-out captain both for Kent and in comparison to his peers at other counties. 2014 has shown the potential of our talented, largely home-grown squad.

“I know Rob is keen that the potential is developed to a higher level in 2015 and there was unanimity in the decision to ask him to lead that development.

“He captains as a true Club Captain, is very aware of all aspects of the club and conscious of a rising expectation from all who follow Kent, having seen the possibilities in 2014.”

The Kent captaincy is appointed on a season-by-season basis and both the club's cricket and general committee had to endorse the decision for Key to have continued in the role.

On the day it was confirmed Joe Denly has returned to the club and coach Jimmy Adams has penned a new deal, former West Indies international Brendan Nash has also signed a contract extension at Kent.

The 36-year-old, who played 21 Tests and nine ODIs, said: “I am happy to extend my contract.

“I’ve enjoyed my three seasons at the club and when I came to the club there was an idea in place to move Kent forward, I'm glad I can continue to help with this."

Nash, who turns 37 in December - has scored almost 3,000 First Class runs for Kent in just 49 matches at an average of 45.

He added: "The club realise it is important to have that blend of experience and younger players to help with this idea.

“Personally, I’m happy with what I have contributed both on and off the field during my time at Kent and I'm looking forward to seeing the progression next season.”

Graham Johnson added: “Having Brendan in the mix of our batting unit with all his experience and skill will mean that we have healthy competition for places and a mix of batters to handle whatever the challenge in 2015.

“I know Brendan has experienced playing in winning environments in his career and we all want 2015 to be exactly that for Kent. I am sure he will relish that opportunity.”