Essex Eagles head coach Chris Silverwood says it will be a proud moment for everyone at the club when Tom Westley makes his England debut today.

The 28-year-old will bat at number three in the third Test match against South Africa after getting the call-up last week.

Westley has been hugely impressive for Essex this year, and has long been touted as a future star for his country.

And now he has got his chance, Silverwood says he is thrilled for his vice-captain.

“County cricket is all about producing England cricketers,” he said, ahead of the Test at the Oval.

“Obviously we take a lot of pride in seeing players go on and get their opportunity.

“To do that, guys have got to perform well for us in the first instance and Tom has done exactly that.

“We wish him all the best and I told him before he left that we are all very proud of him and look forward to seeing him wearing his Three Lions cap.

“It’s a very proud moment for the club to see him make the step up from playing for Essex to becoming an England cricketer and we are all delighted for him.”

Westley will join fellow Essex batsman Alastair Cook at the top of the order, with Toby Roland-Jones also handed a first cap.

Meanwhile, his Essex team-mates are in T20 Blast action the other side of London.

Eagles visit Lord’s to take on Middlesex as they look to continue their resurgence in the southern group.