Andre Nel has been cleared to play for Essex by the South Africa board. Nel, the fast bowler, won't have much time to rest after the World Cup. If South Africa make the final on April 29, he will have just two days off before turning out for Essex's first match, against his former club Northants. The Championship tie begins on May 2.

Nel will stay with the county until mid-June, his second stint at the club, after a brief stay in August and September 2005. Upon his departure in June, Nel will be replaced by Australian all-rounder Andy Bichel who will remain with the County until September. Pakistan leg-spinner Danish Kaneria is contracted to Essex for the whole season, subject to international commitments.

Everyone at Essex was, needless to say, delighted.