Former Kent batsman Matthew Walker has an early reunion with his old team-mates on Wednesday, and says his move to Essex has given him a new lease of life.

The 35-year-old has settled in well with his new county after being released by Kent after 16 years and faces his former side in the LV County Championship at Chelmsford.

He said: "It will be slightly strange playing against guys who I know so well, but I already feel a big part of the set-up at Essex.

"I am looking forward to the game but pleased the first one is at home, because it would be even wierder playing at Canterbury."

Walker has already made a quick impression. He scored an unbeaten 69 off 65 balls to guide Essex to a seven-wicket win in the Friends Provident Trophy over Northamptonshire and 48 not out to see them home in the county championship against Gloucestershire last week.

He said: "It almost feels like starting my career again. I feel a different person and being at a county who wants and believes in you is hugely satisfying. It has given me new impetus and the opportunity to prove myself again. I played pretty well in pre-season in Dubai."

Reflecting on his departure from Kent, Walker, who still lives in Whitstable, said: "I’m not bitter. It was a great experience and time to move on.

"I’m a great believer in fate and that everything happens for a reason. I still felt I had something to offer last season but didn’t feature much. I didn’t necessarily agree but respected the decision."