Aftab Habib is hoping that a move to Essex will kick-start his England career, according to his new boss.

"He sees it as a challenge and one that will lead to him getting back into the Test side," said David East, the county's chief executive.

Habib has signed a three-year deal with Essex after paying up the remainder of his contract to get his release from Leicestershire.

He won England recognition three years ago but was dropped after two outings against New Zealand in which he failed to do himself justice.

The 30-year-old right-hander managed to score only 26 runs in three trips to the middle and would undoubtedly relish another chance to show he can deliver at the highest level.

"He's certainly a player of immense talent and is capable of representing England again," said East.

"To do that he has to start scoring freely for Essex an I'm convinced he'll do just that.

"We are absolutely delighted Habib has decided to join us and he will give our batting a much more solid look."

Habib scored around 5,500 first-class runs at an average of around 45 in seven season with Leicestershire.

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Published Tuesday, March 5, 2002