After spending a poor tour in England, Indian Test opener Murali Vijay has signed with Essex County Cricket Club for the remainder County season.

The 34-year-old right-handed opening batsman Murali Vijay had a poor experience in the recent English tour where he scored only 26 runs in four innings. He was dropped out from the playing XI in the third Test and later, he was dropped out from the squad for the last two Tests of the five-match away Test series.

As he is not in the squad, Vijay has signed with the County team Essex to feature in the remainder County season.

After locking that new deal, Vijay 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.”

Indian cricketer Vijay has played 59 Tests, 17 ODIs and 9 T20Is where he has scored 3,933 runs, 339 runs and 169 respectively.

Meanwhile, Essex head coach Anthony McGrath feels delighted after Vijay’s joining in the team. He believes the Indian opener can make the positive difference for the team.

Anthony said, “We’re delighted that Vijay has chosen to come here. He’s a great batsman who can score runs at the top of the order.

“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 Vijay possesses could make all the difference for us.”

The division one team Essex is currently at the fourth position on the points table with 121 points after four victories and four defeats.