Gloucestershire vice-captain Alex Gidman looks set to reject

offers from two county giants and commit his future to

Gloucestershire.

Gidman was in talks with Warwickshire and Surrey about a

possible move away from Nevil Road but has agreed to stay

following a meeting with new Director of cricket John

Bracewell.

Bracewell will return to the county next season after a five

year spell as coach of the New Zealand international side.

Bracewell's knowledge of the international game is believed

to have tipped the balance in Gloucestershire's favour as

Gidman looks to re-establish himself as a player with

international credentials.

Gidman captained the England A side early in his career and

it was thought a move to Warwickshire could enhance his chances

of playing internationally.

He met with Warwickshire Director of cricket and current

England selector Ashley Giles about a move to Edgbaston.

Gidman had spoken of his admiration for Giles and met with

him at the Gloucester festival at the end of May.

However Bracewell's return and an improved offer from

Gloucestershire has swayed his decision and he looks set to

commit his future to the club that gave him his county debut in

2002.

Gloucestershire will now hope that pace bowler Steve Kirby

follows Gidman in turning down Warwickshire.

Kirby has also been approached by Giles about a move to

Birmingham, but Gloucestershire are hopeful that he too will

commit to the club.

“We are extremely hopeful that both Alex and Steve will

decide to stay with us,” said County chief executive Tom

Richardson.

“But nothing has been decided yet and we will give them time

to make up their minds.”