By Richard Latham

SOMERSET are expected to omit Marcus Trescothick from their team to take on local rivals Gloucestershire in a sell-out NatWest T20 Blast South Group clash at Bristol tomorrow night.

The former England batsman has struggled for form in the competition so far, scoring just 45 runs at an average of just nine, while also keeping wicket.

Director of cricket Matthew Maynard said: “We think it might be time for Marcus to take a break. There have been a couple of technical issues with his batting that mean he has not been striking the ball as cleanly as usual.

“I believe those have now been resolved, but that he would benefit from being rested and will come back fresher and as good as ever.”

Former Hampshire wicketkeeper Michael Bates, signed on a one-month contract, is likely to take over gloves against Gloucestershire, having impressed in Somerset’s remarkable LV=County Championship win over Nottinghamshire.

Maynard said: “It’s a great opportunity for Michael to earn an extended deal. He kept very well against Notts and produced a very valuable innings at the end of the game to see us home.”

Despite the presence of Chris Gayle for four of their opening six group games, Somerset have amassed only five points and desperately need to beat a Gloucestershire side with four wins already under their belts.

Maynard has clinched signing of New Zealand wicketkeeper-batsman Luke Ronchi for five of Somerset’s remaining group matches, but he will not team up with them until the match against Middlesex tomorrow week.

In the meantime, Maynard is hoping Australian Tom Cooper can build on his explosive innings of 84 not out against Glamorgan in the last T20 fixture after a difficult start to his time at Taunton.

“Tom showed what he is all about at Cardiff,” said Maynard. “It is not easy adjusting to the pitches over here, but we know his capabilities and hopefully that knock will prove a springboard for him.”

Somerset-born Peter Trego warmed up for the visit to Bristol with a match-winning innings of 79 in the Championship game with Notts.

He said: “It’s always a great challenge taking on Gloucestershire, with sell-out crowds almost guaranteed at both grounds.

“It was a great feeling beating Notts after such a great fightback and we need to use that as motivation so we can experience the same emotions on Friday night.”