Nel to join Essex

Essex appear to have secured the signing of the eccentric South African paceman Andre Nel. He will re-join the side that he appeared for briefly back in 2005.

He will join up with Essex once South Africa's participation in the World Cup in the Caribbean is over, and if all goes to plan, wlil remain there till the middle of June.

Formal approval is still yet to be confirmed from the South African board, as they will no doubt be wanting to protect their paceman who is now generally thought of as a crucial figure in the Proteas pace attack.

David East, the chief executive at Essex, will certainly be pleased if this move comes to its inevitable fruition : “Andre was a huge asset to us in the brief time he was at Essex in 2005. He is a wholehearted competitor and is sure to make a significant early season impact in both one-day and Championship cricket.”

Essex are also closing in on the signing of Australian Andy Bichel for a second successive year. Discussions are in progree for Bichel's stay to last till September 15 and possibly beyond, depending on negotiations. He will share the second overseas place with Andre Nel, and it is hoped he will take over the reins from the 29 year-old South African in June. Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria is the other overseas player that will fulfill his role for the full season.

Both Nel and Bichel are determined competitors and will give Essex some needed firepower, along with the recent signing of former Glamorgan paceman Darren Thomas.