Essex sign Jonathan Dakin

Former Leicestershire player Jonathan Dakin has become the latest player to join Essex as part of the Club's rebuilding programme in their quest to regain their mantle as one of the country's leading counties.

Born in Hitchin, Hertfordshire, the 28-year-old all-rounder made his debut for his former county in 1993 and was a regular member of both their championship and one-day squads.

Standing 6'6" tall, he is a powerful left-handed batsman and right-arm medium-fast bowler with a highest score of 190 against Northamptonshire in the championship. Last season, he topped the Leicestershire first-class bowling averages with 16 wickets at 26 runs apiece in his seven matches.

Chief Executive David East said: "Jonathan is currently playing in Tasmania and is delighted at the prospect of joining us. We all believe that he can play a full part in taking the county into Division 1 of both league competitions, as he is a proven performer at that level. We expect him to prove a shrewd capture."