Somerset skipper Justin Langer has finally confirmed he will not be returning to the club next season, making Marcus Trescothick's promotion to captain a formality.

The Sabres will now step up their bid to sign an overseas player to replace Langer.

Langer said: "I am very proud of what we have achieved as a team over the last few years. We have proved that organisation, team-work, talent, vision and discipline are the most important factors when competing on the field.

"My family and I have greatly enjoyed our time in Somerset, where we have been made to feel incredibly welcome. While it is tough to let go of my playing ties with Somerset, I feel the time is now right for me to move on to the next phase in my career.

"I have not yet decided where or what that might be, and I will take some time out to decide which route I wish to take, either within cricket or in following my other life pursuits."

Langer, who turns 39 in November, has been one of the catalysts in Somerset's rise from bottom of County Championship Division Two in 2006 to compete strongly for the title itself both last year and this.

The former Australia opener has captained Somerset since 2007 and also played for the club in 2006, as a temporary overseas player, scoring 342 against Surrey at Guildford, the highest individual first-class score by a Somerset player.

Langer's finale with Somerset will be at next month's Champions League in India, while his final Championship game starts at Taunton tomorrow against Worcestershire.

Somerset director of cricket Brian Rose paid tribute. He said: "I have been privileged over the years to have been involved with many great overseas players at Somerset, including Viv Richards, Greg Chappell and Sunil Gavaskar. JL is right up there with them in terms of the progression he has achieved for the club in the last three years."

Somerset chief executive Richard Gould added: "JL's contribution as a player and captain will mark him down in club history as one of our most outstanding performers. His direction and determination has allowed the club to re-invent itself as one of the top performing clubs in English cricket.

"His personal example has allowed many of our younger players to blossom and his legacy will evident for years to come."