Nicol poised for Gloucestershire move

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Gloucestershire are set to sign Rob Nicol as their overseas player for the final two months of the season to cover the loss of fellow New Zealander Kane Williamson.

The 29-year-old Nicol, who opens the batting and bowls occasional off-spin, struggled for runs in the Kiwis’ recent series with South Africa but has averaged nearly 49 in nine one-day international outings for his country.

New Zealand opener Rob Nicol is expected to replace fellow Kiwi Kane Williamson in Gloucestershire's squad for the final two months

Former New Zealand international and coach John Bracewell - now at the helm of Gloucestershire - said: “New Zealand are sending us another player once our t20 competition is over and at this stage it looks like being Rob Nicol.

“He would be a like-for-like replacement for Kane Williamson and has a very good first-class record.”

Nicol would become the latest New Zealander to appear for Gloucestershire should - as expected - he arrive in mid-July to replace the in-form Williamson, who leaves next week to prepare for the Black Caps’ tour of West Indies.

Gloucestershire will continue with Sri Lankan spin wizard Muttiah Muralitharan as their sole overseas representative throughout the Friends Life t20 competition as Nicol is on standby for the Windies tour.

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