ESSEX have joined Derbyshire and three other counties in the race to sign Worcestershire opener Stephen Moore.

The Eagles have become the fifth county to give Worcestershire 28 days' notice of approach to speak to Moore, with Derbyshire, Sussex, Northamptonshire and Glamorgan in expressing an interest in the South African-born player.

But Moore has intimated he would like to remain with the Royals, who expect to hold contract talks with the player.

“Stephen has said he wants to play his cricket at Worcester and we want him to play out his career at Worcestershire,” said Worcestershire chief executive Mark Newton.