Gallian heading for Essex

Essex have signed opener Jason Gallian on a two-year contract from Nottinghamshire.

Chelmsford next port of call for former England Test batsman

Essex have announced that Nottinghamshire opener Jason Gallian will join them on a two-year contract at the end of the current season. The 36-year-old, who played three tests for England in 1995, is also expected to open the batting at Chelmsford, with captain Mark Pettini dropping down the order. Essex chief executive David East told the club's official website: "We are all delighted that Jason has agreed to join us. "He has a very impressive record and his vast experience will greatly assist our young and exciting batsmen to develop over the next few years. "Jason is very excited about this next stage in his career and is looking forward to joining what he describes as a young and vibrant squad that is going places." Coach Paul Grayson added: "Jason is a guy I've played against a lot who has an excellent first-class record. He will be a good bloke in the dressing room and it is just as important to bring in good characters as well as good players." Gallian, who has also played for Lancashire, has a first-class record which includes 36 centuries and a top score of 312.