Cheltenham and Gloucester Man of the Match hero Keith Parsons has been named as captain for the 3-day match against West Indies A that starts at Taunton on Wednesday.

Taunton born Parsons said: "It is a real honour to have the chance to captain Somerset in a first class game. I always enjoy being captain, and I led Somerset Seconds in the final of the 1 Day Trophy competition last season, but this is something special."

The 29 year old all rounder has enjoyed considerable success against the tourists at Taunton. He has scored a century against Sri Lanka, and in 2000 hit a career best 193 not out against the West Indies.

Parsons leads a young Somerset side that includes three players making their first class debut, left handed opening batsman Neil Edwards and all rounders Arul Suppiah and Wes Durston.

The full Somerset line up will be: Neil Edwards, Matthew Wood, Piran Holloway, Keith Parsons, Arul Suppiah, Keith Dutch, Wes Durston, Carl Gazzard, Graham Rose Peter Trego and Matt Bulbeck.

Chief Executive Peter Anderson told me: "We are hoping for a big crowd to come along and support this match against West Indies A. They are an attractive side and have enjoyed some good results on this tour, and of course they are managed by former Somerset favourite Joel Garner, who will be here with the side."

Play in the 3 day match starts at 11 am on Wednesday. Entry is free to members, £10 for adults, and free for youngsters up to the age of sixteen.

© SOMERSET