Gidman made his first-class debut in 2002

Gloucestershire captain Alex Gidman says a great atmosphere is already building in his side's squad ahead of the start of the new season in April.

Some of the county's players have returned to training following a break for Christmas and new year.

Gidman told the club's website: "The atmosphere here is great.

"Hopefully when some of the other younger lads come back to add a cheekiness to it, work will become even more enjoyable."

Gloucestershire begin their season on 8 April and Gidman says some players taking advantage of playing in warmer climates.

"Chris Dent, Jack Taylor and Liam Norwell are in Australia, attached to various academies and playing club cricket over there," he added.

We are also working hard in the nets on our individual skills Gloucestershire captain Alex Gidman

"I've been in touch with all of them and they are going well, enjoying the chance to play in some good weather."

With by no means a full squad reporting for training each week, Gidman explained that much of the emphasis is on fitness.

"There are a couple of fitness sessions each week with a trainer, using cycles and doing running and swimming," he continued.

"In the gym each player has been given an individual programme to follow, plus a couple of core elements that we all do.

"It's largely major strengthening work of the main muscle groups to make ourselves as physically strong as possible for the season ahead.

"We are also working hard in the nets on our individual skills.

"That has been the case since mid-November and we have each tried to work out for ourselves what we need to concentrate on, rather than simply relying on the coaches."

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