Essex land Kaneria as Flower's 'replacement'

Danish Kaneria, Pakistan's 22-year-old legspinner, has been offered a contract for the 2004 season by Essex.

Kaneria has taken 51 wickets in 12 Tests, although 34 of those have come in five outings against Bangladesh. His Test-best is 12 for 94 in the opening game of the Asian Test Championship in 2001.

"It will be a good learning experience for me," Kaneria said, "and hopefully make me a better bowler."

Essex were able to recruit another overseas player because Andy Flower is now considered to be a domestic registration as he has a British passport.