Essex sign India opener Gautam Gambhir

Essex have signed Indian opening batsman Gautam Gambhir for the remainder of the season.

Vast experience: Gautam Gambhir is a world-class batsman Photo: GETTY IMAGES

Gambhir, 31, will replace Hamish Rutherford as Essex's overseas player and he is expected to make his county debut in the County Championship match against Northamptonshire, starting on August 20.

Rutherford will return to New Zealand after Saturday's Twenty20 finals day ahead of their domestic and international competitions.

Gambhir, who has scored 4,021 runs Test runs at an average of 44.18, said: "I am delighted to have this chance to make my county cricket debut with Essex.

"After the IPL ended I was looking to play some competitive cricket and playing for Essex will give me that opportunity.

"I am thankful to Essex for presenting me with this option and BCCI (Board of Control for Cricket in India) for allowing me to participate in county cricket.