Essex sign Adams as second overseas player

Essex have signed Andre Adams, the New Zealand allrounder, as their second overseas player for the remainder of the season.

Adams, 29, had been playing in the Lancashire leagues before he was called up to New Zealand's one-day squad for the NatWest Series. But while the national flew home after their triumph in last week's final, Adams stayed on and has been snapped by Essex, who are without Danish Kaneria, their original second overseas player, who is playing for Pakistan in the Asia Cup.

Adams has played just the one Test for New Zealand, but 31 one-dayers, with 44 wickets at just over 28, and David East, Essex's chief executive, was happy with his latest signing. "We are delighted that we've been able to sign Andre," East said. "His international experience will be very valuable in all forms of cricket and we are sure he will make a major contribution during his time with the club."

Adams will make his debut against Lancashire at Old Trafford in the National League today.