Essex draft in South African Amla
Hashim Amla ready to play county cricket
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Monday, 29, Jun 2009 12:00
South African batsman Hashim Amla has signed a short-term contract with Essex as cover for Danish Kaneria.
Kaneria has been called-up by his country Pakistan for the Test series against Sri Lanka and Amla will deputise until the end of July. The batsman could stay even longer should Kaneria be selected for the Pakistan one-day team as well.
The 26-year-old Amla will now wait for clearance from Cricket South Africa and get a visa before moving to Chelmsford.
"I am thrilled with the prospect of joining up with Essex at this important stage of the season," said Amla.
"Promotion in the county championship is a major focus for the team and I hope that I can help achieve this goal. I am really looking forward to the challenge."
After a disappointing start to his international career, Amla has gone on to become a key member of the South African Test team batting at number three.
The Durban-born star has struck close to 2,500 runs in Test matches, which includes six centuries and 14 half centuries.
Amla really showed his qualities as a batsman on the tour to Australia earlier this year when he averaged over 50 as South Africa beat the best team in the world.