Monty Panesar has been given a lifeline to secure his place in England's Ashes squad this winter after Essex signed the slow left armer on loan for the rest of the season.
Panesar was earlier today released from his Sussex contract for his drunken behaviour outside a Brighton nightclub on August 5.
He has wasted no time in agreeing a move to Essex, who confirmed on their official website that the 31-year-old will be available to play their remaining six LV County Championship Division Two matches.