Flower talks up Kieswetter's chance to shine for England

The prospect of Craig Kieswetter in an England kit may appal some but it now appears to be only a matter of time. The South African qualifies to play for his adopted nation today and Andy Flower, the England coach, said yesterday that he expects the 22-year-old to be challenging for a place soon.

The Somerset wicketkeeper has impressed during the England Lions' time in Dubai, scoring 31, 40 not out and 77no in wins over Pakistan A and UAE A. Tomorrow sees the junior side take on England's first team, a fine opportunity for Kieswetter to further his case. "He has had a really good start," Flower said. "He's got runs in all three of his [Lions] games, so Wednesday is a chance for him to impress. He'll be excited about that challenge."

Kieswetter will be targeting a spot in England's World Twenty20 team to travel to the Caribbean in April. One man certain to make that trip is Kevin Pietersen, despite a poor tour of South Africa. Flower believes the batsman will return to his best in the coming weeks as England tackle Pakistan in two Twenty20 fixtures before a Test and one-day tour of Bangladesh. "He's very hungry. He had quite a chunk of time out of international cricket and he's come back hungry," Flower said.