Essex have followed up their promise of signing an "emerging bowler" as their second overseas player for 2003 by signing Zimbabwe-born Scott Brant.

County sides are allowed to sign two players of Test experience under new rules for the 2003 season, but Essex have decided against an established talent.

Fast bowler Brant, 20, was born in Harare but made his first-class debut for Queensland in 2001 after he and his family emigrated to Australia.

Brant has appeared in five first-class matches for the Bulls, taking 11 wickets at average of 20.45. He has also made seven one-day appearances for the state.

A member of the Australia U19 training squad last year, he was ineligible for the World Cup having not yet met residential qualifications.

"We are delighted that Scott will be joining us this year," said Essex chief executive David East.

"Although he has only played a limited amount of first-class cricket for Queensland, there is no question that he has great natural ability.

"He comes highly recommended by many senior figures in the game, and we wish him every success with the Club in 2003."

Former Zimbabwe captain Andy Flower is the other overseas man on the Essex staff.

"The prospect of working with Graham Gooch and learning from players like Andy Flower and Ronnie Irani was a huge draw," Brant said.

"And I'm sure I can make a significant contribution.

"I look forward to meeting up with the players on their pre-season tour in Cape Town in late March".