ALEX Gidman will be the latest Worcestershire coach to assist England ahead of an international match.

The second XI coach is to link up with England on Thursday ahead of their second T20 international with India at Cardiff on Friday.

It follows head coach Kevin Sharp doing a similar role ahead of last summer’s Test at Trent Bridge.

Ex-Gloucestershire captain Gidman has overseen much of Rapids' white-ball preparations alongside bowling coach Alan Richardson.

He will miss Thursday's opening Vitality Blast game at Lancashire Lightning but be back for Friday's home match with Birmingham Bears.

Sharp said: “What the ECB are doing now on preparation days for games is inviting coaches along for some experience and to feel part of an England set-up.

“It is a great PR exercise and great development for a coach. Alex is really delighted. It is a feather in his cap.

“I was made up when I was given that opportunity last year. You do your work and to have those sort of development opportunities is brilliant.

“This is Alex's first year as a coach in the professional game. He will come back with some information and knowledge and be able to share that with us as well.”

Sharp added: “Alex and Alan are very skilled and experienced in white-ball cricket. It has been priceless. The lads have welcomed it.

“It has allowed me a bit of freedom to go with the seconds, watch them play and see the next generation which is important to me as head coach.”