Essex have signed South Africa Test off-spinner Simon Harmer on a 'Kolpak' deal for next summer.
Harmer, 27, won all five of his Test caps last year but has decided to join Essex to achieve a "boyhood dream" to play county cricket.
He will be available as a non-overseas signing in all competitions next season, and Essex coach Chris Silverwood said: "Simon is an exciting cricketer who has played at the top level of the game for his country.
"We are pleased he has decided to join the club, and he will give us another high-quality spin option in all formats."
Harmer added: "Playing county cricket has always been a boyhood dream of mine, and to have the opportunity to fulfil that dream at Essex is very surreal."
Essex will play in Division One of the Specsavers County Championship in 2017 following their promotion this year.
Source: PA
