South African fast-bowling all-rounder Eathan Bosch has signed for Essex on a short-term deal covering four Vitality County Championship matches.
The 26-year-old hails from KwaZulu-Natal on South Africa’s east coast, and has represented his home province as well as its franchise form Dolphins, in 38 first-class matches since his debut in 2017.
He possesses a bowling average of 27.18 in the format, having claimed 92 wickets, while he has proven himself a handy batter too, notching a century and seven fifties on his way to 1,053 runs at 22.89.
Bosch has also represented his country at Under-19 level, playing two Youth Tests and two Youth ODIs, and turned out for Pretoria Capitals in both the 2023 and 2024 editions of the SA20 competition.
With Essex once again challenging for the Championship title at the halfway stage, Bosch will be available for matches at home to Durham and Worcestershire and away to Surrey and Hampshire.
“I’m super excited to be here,” said Bosch. “It was a pretty easy deal to accept, and I’m looking forward to my time with the Eagles. It will be nice to play outside of South Africa, and to see what my skills can bring to the table.”
“It will definitely be a learning experience, but I’m looking forward to experiencing a bit more of the country, and especially Chelmsford!”
Essex Head Coach, Anthony McGrath, added: “Eathan is a terrific addition for us, and we’re delighted to welcome him to the team.
“There’s huge value in a well-stocked seam bowling cupboard, and with his experience of bowling in different conditions, he will add a new dimension to our attack.
“He will also be able to push everyone around him to new heights, which will be extremely beneficial as the Championship season heads towards its finale.”