Wiaan Mulder: Essex signing aims to ‘make difference’ in early season

The all-rounder was initially interested in joining Hampshire but when that fell through, a chat with South Africa – and now Essex – team-mate Simon Harmer convinced him Chelmsford was the right place for him.

“I chatted a little bit with Harmy – I played with him in Pakistan and India – he gave me a rundown and encouraged me to think about it closely. In the end it was a really easy decision to make,” he said.

“A lot of the T20 leagues [around the world] are appealing because of the money these days but coming to the UK, the standard of cricket is really high.

“I think people want somebody who can make a difference, make an impact and hopefully that’s what I bring with bat or ball, or in the field, whatever.”

Mulder has previous county experience with Leicestershire but this will be the first time he has played in Division One of the Championship and he is hoping it will lead to a longer connection with cricket.

“Who knows how long I’ve got playing for South Africa… Availability for county teams for the full season is quite attractive, you can grow into a position and be part of the team. Hopefully I [will] play well this year, make a good impression and they would like me back for a couple more years,” he added.