Pakistani ace Kaneria is always a vital component in the Essex squad

Essex could have match-winning spinner Danish Kaneria available for the whole season as they hunt promotion to Division Two of the Championship.

Kaneria, 28, is not part of Pakistan's limited-overs squads and his country have no Test engagements on the agenda.

Coach Paul Grayson is keen to have the leg-break bowler available for the county's first match on 15 April.

Kaneria took 40 wickets and had four five-wicket hauls in 2008 despite breaking his finger in August.

606: DEBATE Essex need some hot, dry weather which might turn Chelmsford into a dustbowl for Kaneria Oliver Brett

Essex spokesman Danny Macklin told BBC Sport that Kaneria's precise start date would be determined following consultation with the player and the Pakistan Cricket Board.

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