Essex have signed New Zealand international Chris Martin on a short-term deal to cover for Pakistan leg-spinner Danish Kaneria.
Martin, 35, will sign subject to a visa, but has already been granted clearance by New Zealand Cricket.
The former Warwickshire fast bowler is expected to be available for the Division One fixture against Lancashire starting on April 21 and will stay with the county until May 7, when Essex are due to wrap up a match against Yorkshire.
Wrist-spinner Kaneria, who is currently unavailable due to domestic commitments in Pakistan, will then arrive at Essex for the remainder of the campaign.
"We are delighted that Chris will be joining us," said Essex coach Paul Grayson.
"He is a top-class bowler and is keen to play county championship cricket.
"Chris will be a good replacement in this interim period and we look forward to welcoming him to Essex ahead of the Lancashire game."
