Essex sign Western Province allrounder

Essex have become the latest county to take advantage of a loophole in European employment legislation, by signing the 22-year-old South African allrounder Ryan ten Doeschate for the remainder of this season.

Ten Doeschate (pronounced "ten-der-skarter"), was born in Port Elizabeth and plays for Western Province. But, because of his Dutch ancestry, he qualifies to play in English domestic cricket as a European citizen.

"Ryan was spotted by Essex in Cape Town when the team was on pre-season tour in March," said David East, Essex's chief executive. "He is currently playing club cricket in the Netherlands, and we have agreed with his club that he will be available for Essex for most of our season, although he will not be available to play on Sunday's due to his contractual commitments."

Ten Doeschate will be available for selection for Essex's opening Twenty20 Cup match against Surrey on Saturday.