FORMER Somerset cricketer Kevin Parsons has been selected for the England Over 50s for their 11 day tour to Dubai which starts on March 30.

During their time away the England Over 50s will play three ODI v India and one ODI v UAE, as well as a friendly against one of the local club sides.

Kevin, who is a top order batter and one of the best local cricketers of his era, said: “It’s great to be selected for the tour. I’ve not played cricket in Dubai before so I’m really looking forward to it.

“I have been in the Over 50s set up for the last couple of years and have played two full internationals against Zimbabwe and USA. However in 2025 I scored well for the England Over 50s Lions which is what’s got me selected for this trip.

“Last summer I scored 70 odd in Yorkshire, and 60 in Cambridge which is what pushed me into getting picked for the game against Zimbabwe at the end of last season.

“Yes I’m really excited about the trip to Dubai and to make sure we are fit I’m on a four month training programme with exercises and gym activities.

“It’s really the reason for me to keep playing. The England set up made contact with me when I was 48 or 49 and asked if I’d be interested but I’ve not really broken in, but this is now my chance. Hopefully I can have three or four good games and get enough runs to be selected in the squad for the Over 50s World Cup which is taking place in India in February 2027.”

He added: “Next year New Zealand are touring here so there are lots of games coming up and a lot of cricket to look forward to.”