Saturday 16 September 2017 17:32, UK
Alastair Cook has been made available for Essex's final two Specsavers County Championship matches as they look to seal their first title since 1992.
There was doubt over Cook's availability for his county after his recent involvement in England's Test series victories over South Africa and the West Indies, and their imminent Ashes tour of Australia.
However, Essex have now confirmed that Cook will be available for next week's match against Hampshire at the Ageas Bowl as well as their home game against Yorkshire.
Essex head coach Chris Silverwood said: "Obviously it is always a massive bonus to get a player of Alastair's calibre back into the squad and around the group.
"He made a massive difference earlier in the season and helped set us on the path we have been on. Hopefully now he can come back and help us achieve the dream of lifting the Division One title."
Despite their joy at Cook's return, Essex may have already sealed the title before Cook can next enter the crease.
If Essex beat Warwickhsire and Lancashire fail to defeat Somerset in the current round of fixtures, they will secure the Championship title with two fixtures remaining.
Essex currently lead Warwickshire by over 150 runs, while Lancashire were bowled out for 133 in their first innings.
