Bichel to return to Essex

Andy Bichel has re-joined Essex for 2007 © Getty Images

Essex have announced that Andy Bichel, the former Australian Test bowler, will rejoin the county for the second half of the 2007 season.

Bichel, 36, who had a successful spell at the club last season, has signed a new contract pending all necessary releases and authorisations from Cricket Australia and Queensland Cricket, and will play for the club for the period from mid-June until September 15.

He will replace Andre Nel, who arrives after the World Cup, and will be joined by the Pakistani leg-spinner Danish Kaneria, who will play for Essex for the whole season.

Bichel told the Essex website: "I am delighted to be re-joining Essex on a short-term basis during the summer of 2007. We have a lot of talent in the side and I am looking forward to making the most of our opportunities during the season. We had a lot of close calls last season so I'm pleased to be a part of this side again and will hopefully make amends this year."

Bichel has played 19 Test matches and 67 one-day internationals for Australia, and there is a possibility his deal can be extended. He played a major role in Essex's Pro40 success last season, and took 32 wickets in eight County Championship matches.