ROOKIE seamer Kabir Ali will make his limited-over debut for Worcestershire when they open their Benson and Hedges Cup campaign at Northamptonshire tomorrow (10.45am).

The up-and-coming 19-year-old is included in a 12-strong squad.

Ali made his first-class debut for the County last year in the Championship match against Middlesex and is now being given the chance to shine in the one-day arena.

"He's done well in pre-season and is coming along nicely," said New Road coach Bill Athey today.

Reuben Spiring has won his fitness fight to be ready for the start of the new campaign and will open the County's innings.

He successfully stepped up his preparations earlier this week by hitting 84 in a friendly fixture against Nottinghamshire at New Road.

Spiring had his season cut short last year because he required a sixth operation on his troublesome knee which prevented him from making a first team appearance in 1998.

"Reuben's come through everything well and he's really looking forward to the season," said Athey.

Batsman Elliott Wilson will now be available for the whole of the County's season having put his studies on hold at Durham University and will make his cup debut tomorrow.

Opener Philip Weston misses the match because of a slight knee injury which could delay his start to the new season by at least a week.

All-rounder Gavin Haynes is recovering from a knee operation which is likely to sideline him for anther month.

Over the years Worcestershire have played Northants 12 times in the competition and have had a slight edge.

They have won six compared to Northants' five with one tie being abandoned.

Worcs (from): Pollard, Spiring, Hick, Solanki, Wilson, Leatherdale, Rhodes, Lampitt, Kabir Ali, Illingworth, Sheriyar, Rawnsley.