Former Proteas fast bowler Duanne Olivier will welcome a County Championship Division One debut for Yorkshire against Nottinghamshire at Trent Bridge this week.

Olivier was in doubt for the fixture after injuring a knee during late last month’s outing against Leeds Bradford Marylebone Cricket Club University, but has since recovered.

‘I did think, “Oh no, this can’t be happening” when Duanne tried to walk and stopped again,’ said Yorkshire head coach Andrew Gale.

‘But it was clear within 15 minutes he’d be okay when he asked if he could go out and bowl again. I said, “No”. It was just precautionary to keep him off the field because it’s a massive game against Notts. We’ll wrap him in cotton wool and then cut it off on Friday.’

Olivier will likely play alongside former Dolphins seamer Mathew Pillans.

Pillans, who last played franchise cricket in South Africa in December 2015, spent stints with Surrey and Leicestershire, but has since settled in Yorkshire.

‘Pillans, it was good to see him bowl well in the second innings and show what he can do. I think everyone is starting to hit their straps,’ added Gale.

‘We’re two strong sides on paper. Both teams will want to get out of blocks well. They’re two of the best bowling attacks in county cricket, I think. It will be a great spectacle. Everyone’s happy the season is here and can’t wait to get into it.’

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