Panesar signs two-year contract with Essex to repay 'respect'

England spinner Monty Panesar has ended speculation over his domestic future by signing a two-year contract at Essex.

According to The Daily Express, Panesar praised the club for helping him feel respected and loved after experiencing a challenging time.

Panesar left former county Sussex in August when he was fined for drunkenly urinating on a bouncer after being asked to leave a nightclub, and Essex offered him a lifeline, the report said.

He said that he loved playing for Essex last season and he loves the 'family feel' of the club, along with valuing the role the team had played in helping him move towards his best, and gaining selection for the Ashes.