'I can't wait to bowl at 'Banger' says Steffan Jones

The next thirty six hours could be of vital importance in shaping the international career of Steffan Jones who will play for Wales against England at Cardiff tomorrow.

Twenty eight year old Steffan who was born and brought up in Llanelli joined Somerset in 1997 since when he has become one the most consistent wicket takers for the club.

He has also become something of a specialist in the one day game, particularly bowling in tight situations at the `death' of the innings."

Steffan has set his sights on a place in the England World Cup squad for 2003, and over the last few seasons has worked towards this goal. Before the start of this season he told me that this was going to be his big year, during which he was going to bowl more overs and take more wickets than ever.

Whilst he has yet to be summoned by Duncan Fletcher, Steffan's achievements have been noticed by the Welsh selectors who have invited him to play for his native country in their first international match ever against England.

Unfortunately for Steffan he injured a hamstring early on which has kept him out of action for several games, but he is now back and more determined than ever to play at Cardiff tomorrow.

Steffan told me: "I'm really looking forward to Monday and I just can't wait to bowl at `Banger' and the rest of the England team. I'm probably still a little bit off bowling at full throttle because my injury has put me back, but now I've got a number of overs for Somerset under my belt since I came back I'm finding my feet again."

The Welshman will travel to Cardiff where he will join up with the rest of the Wales team for a training session and nets on Sunday, in readiness for the big game on Monday.

He concluded: "A lot of my family will be there to cheer me on, so I'll be going out to do my best for everybody."