Friday 21 October 2016 10:44, UK
Essex have signed South Africa Test off-spinner Simon Harmer on a one-year deal.
Harmer qualifies as a 'Kolpak' player and will be available in all three formats as Essex prepare for life back in Division One of the County Championship.
The 27-year-old has 20 wicket in five Tests and averages almost 26 with the bat in 78 first-class games.
He told the Essex website: "Playing county cricket has always been a boyhood dream of mine and to have the opportunity to fulfil that dream at Essex is very surreal.
"I am really looking forward to adding as much value as I possibly can to the team and making sure our time in the Specsavers County Championship Division One is a long one.
"I have only heard good things about the players at Essex and I am really excited about my future with the club and contributing in the way that I plan."
Coach Chris Silverwood said: "Simon is an exciting cricketer who has played at the top level of the game for his country.
"We are pleased he has decided to join the club and he will give us another high quality spin option in all formats."
