RAVI BOPARA will play for Gloucestershire in tomorrow’s eagerly-awaited one-day clash with the South Africans at Bristol.
The 27-year-old Essex and England all-rounder was nominated by the ECB when Gloucestershire approached them about fielding a guest in the 50-over match against the tourists, which starts at 10.15am.
Bopara was today named in England’s squads for the one-day international series against South Africa, which begins at the Swalec Stadium on Friday night, and the T20 internationals which follow.
Gloucestershire chief executive Tom Richardson said: “We are delighted to have a player of Ravi’s ability and stature in our side for the tour match.
“We approached the ECB and asked if it would be possible to field a guest player and we are very pleased with their response.
“Ravi’s appearance will add even more interest to a game Gloucestershire fans and players have been looking forward to since it was announced.”
Gloucestershire have named a strong side and Hamish Marshall is the latest player to express his enthusiasm over the chance to face the South Africans.
“They are a tremendous team, as the Test series against England has proved, and it is a wonderful opportunity for our guys,” he said.
“If you can't get yourself up for a game like this, you shouldn’t be playing professional cricket.”
South Africa’s one-day squad is captained by AB de Villiers and features the renowned bowling attack led by Dale Steyn and Morne Morkel.
With the first one-day clash against England so close, the tourists are also expected to field their strongest available side.
Gloucestershire (from): R.Nicol, R.Bopara, D.Housego, A.Gidman (capt), I. Cockbain, H.Marshall, W.Gidman, E.Young, J.Fuller, J.Batty (wkt), D.Payne, L.Norwell.
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