ESSEX have signed Indian batsman Murali Vijay until the end of the County Championship season.

The 34-year-old will join up with the squad immediately, following Peter Siddle's return to Australia.

Vijay has played in 57 Test matches for India, averaging 40.70, and has represented Chennai Super Kings, Delhi Daredevils, and King XI Punjab in the IPL. He also opened the batting in the recent Tourist match between Essex and India at The Cloudfm County Ground, scoring 53 runs in the first innings.

As a talented batsman with vast experience of International cricket, Vijay will bring quality and runs to Head Coach Anthony McGrath’s squad.

“We’re delighted that Murali has chosen to come here, he’s a great batsman who can score runs at the top of the order," said McGrath.

“Vijay’s run-scoring ability means he can be the difference-maker in a game, and that skill is something we were looking to bring in towards the end of the season and something that we’re excited about.

“The campaign is coming to an end and we have some really big games over the next month, so getting someone in with the experience and international quality that Murali possesses could make all the difference for us.”

Vijay is also excited to be heading to Essex for the end of the County Championship and said: “I was here with the India side about a month ago and saw first-hand just how good the crowd is.

“I can’t wait to play for Essex and hopefully win some matches.”

Essex’s Overseas signings are in partnership with Seven Investment Management.

The county have also confirmed seamer Peter Siddle will return to the club next year after he penned a two-year deal.

The Australian has made a huge impression both on and off the field during his two spells at Essex this season and has committed his future until the end of the 2020 campaign.

This week’s match against Surrey at The Cloudfm County Ground was his final appearance this year before heading back to Australia, but he’s already excited about the prospect of spending a full summer in Chelmsford next season.

Siddle commented: “I have loved my time at the club so far with the players and staff giving me a great welcome, and I really feel part of the team at Essex.

“As an overseas player, I am always committed to taking the whole experience in and not just picking up my money and being on my way at the end of a contract.

“There is a wealth of talent in this squad who are hungry for more success and I am thrilled that I can join them for a further two season and be part of it.

“I’m also really excited to play alongside Cooky [Alastair Cook], we’ve had some really great battles in the past and it’s going to be fun to play on the same side as him rather than against him.”

Anthony McGrath said: “We are ecstatic that Peter has agreed to be with us for a further two years. We have all seen the qualities he brings to this squad and complements our bowling attack perfectly.

“He has a wealth of experience and the professional attitude he applies every time he heads out onto the field is commendable, as well as being a great person to have around the Club off the field.”

However, Ashar Zaidi and Callum Taylor will leave Essex at the end of their current contracts.