The New Zealand pace bowler Chris Martin has been cleared to play for English County cricket side Essex following a delay in the processing of his visa.
Martin will play his first match against Middlesex this weekend.
35-year-old Martin was given permission by New Zealand Cricket to sign as short-term cover for Pakistan spin bowler Danish Kaneria, who was unavailable for the start of the season due to commitments in Pakistan.
He had been due to play his first match against Lancashire, at Chelmsford, last week, but according to an Essex statement there was an unavoidable delay in the processing of his visa.
Martin is not involved in the Twenty20 World Cup in the Caribbean.
