Essex have confirmed the re-signing of Hampshire wicket-keeper batsman Adam Wheater on a two-year deal.

Wheater rejoined Essex on loan till the end of the season on the eve of Hampshire's last home game, but the move has been made permanent.

The 26 year-old scored 802 Championship runs at 47 for Hampshire this season, before leaving as the season reached its climax, frustrated at being dropped as wicketkeeper for Lewis McManus.

Wheater said: “It’s great to be back at Essex, where I started my career. I’d like to thank Hampshire for their understanding of moving to Essex and wish them every success in the future.”

Head Coach Chris Silverwood told the Essex CCC website: “To be able to bring Adam back to the club on a permanent basis is brilliant for us, he comes into the squad with Division One experience, which is exactly what we need should we get promoted.”