Visa problems are finally over for Chris Martin, who is set to make his long-awaited debut for Essex.

The New Zealand seamer, who has played 56 Tests and 20 One-Day Internationals, will be available for Sunday’s Clydesdale Bank 40 clash at Lord’s against Middlesex.

He was due at Essex a couple of weeks ago as a replacement for Danish Kaneria, who has had domestic commitments in Pakistan.

But red tape held his arrival up, leaving Essex to start the season without an overseas player.

Martin is expected to stay for 21 days – the minimum period an overseas player can be signed for – with Kaneria now expected to be available from May 9.