Kieswetter's England ambition

South African-born wicketkeeper qualifies in 18 months time

Last updated: 1st July 2008

Craig Kieswetter Somerset v South Africa Jul 08

Kieswetter: switching allegiance

If anyone had told me when I played my first match for Somerset Seconds two years ago, that I would be playing for them against South Africa in 2008, then I would have laughed in their face.

Craig Kieswetter
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Craig Kieswetter stated his ambition is to play Test cricket for England after top-scoring for Somerset in their tour match against South Africa on Monday.

The wicketkeeper, who hit 67 off 111 balls, was born in Johannesburg and played for South Africa at the Under 19 World Cup in 2006.

But the 20-year-old holds a British passport and went via Millfield School into county cricket with Somerset.

He now intends to chase international recognition with England, for whom he qualifies to represent in 18 months, and admits playing in a Test match for his adopted country will be "the ultimate aim".

"For a young cricketer, to play against any Test match side is a great thrill but to play against the country of your birth is something very special," he said.

"This game has extra meaning for me, trying to show South Africa what they have lost, what could have been but my expression is to play for England.

"If anyone had told me when I played my first match for Somerset Seconds two years ago, that I would be playing for them against South Africa in 2008, then I would have laughed in their face.

"For me this is a real thrill to play against people like Mark Boucher, who was a hero of mine when I was growing up back in Cape Town. To get runs against them means a lot to me.

"I played for South Africa in the Under 19 World Cup in 2006 and since then my game has improved considerably, both my wicket-keeping and batting.

"Now I will be qualified for England in another 18 months and to play Test cricket for them is my ultimate aim."