The Gloucestershire captain was appointed to the MCC role in January

Gloucestershire's Alex Gidman has said he is looking forward to playing for the MCC against Durham four-dayer beginning on Monday.

Gidman will captain the MCC side in the unorthodox season opener, held in the 40 degree heat of Abu Dhabi.

"It's a great, great honour to be hear and on such an historic occasion, it's especially special," he told the BBC.

Gidman's brother Will is in Durham's squad, but not expected to play in the match due to an injured finger.

The Gloucs all-rounder said his team had no problems adapting to the pink ball and floodlights conditions of the UAE game.

"It hasn't made an ounce of difference, to be honest," he said.

"Most of the lads know each other, so there's no shortage of camaraderie and team spirit in the side.

"I'm looking forward to scoring some runs or at least get some quality practice in."

Gidman's county team-mates Jon Lewis and Steve Kirby also feature in the MCC side.

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