Essex sign Lonwabo Tsotsobe as new overseas player

Essex have completed the signing of Lonwabo Tsotsobe as their new overseas player for the coming season.

The South African fast bowler is likely to make in his debut in next week's match against Middlesex.

The 27-year-old, who played in the recent World Cup, is a left arm fast-medium bowler.

Tsotsobe told the club's website: "I am thrilled to be joining up with Essex and hope I can make a significant contribution for the county."

He added: "As this is my first experience of county cricket, I obviously can't wait to get started and I look forward to playing a part in regaining our Division One status."

Essex head coach Paul Grayson was delighted with the arrival of Tsotsobe.

"He has come highly recommended by people we know," he said.

"As a left armer, he offers variation and we hope he will make a big impact for the start of the season."

Last week, Grayson said that a deal to sign Australian Peter Siddle had fallen through.

He also said New Zealand fast bowler Tim Southee, who was also linked with a move to Essex, had opted to play in the Indian Premier League.