WORCESTERSHIRE Rapids have received a boost with Moeen Ali cleared by England to play in Friday's home NatWest T20 Blast clash with mid-table Northamptonshire Steelbacks (5.30pm).

Chief executive David Leatherdale confirmed Rapids had been given the green light for Moeen to play in the New Road encounter.

Moeen has made a big impact already in this season's competition, helping Worcestershire to the top of the North Group at the halfway stage of the 14-match programme.

The 28-year-old scored 90 in the first clash with Steelbacks at Wantage Road and last Friday smashed a rapid 65 in the home win over Derbyshire Falcons.

Friday's appearance will be his sixth in succession for Rapids — an unexpected but welcome bonus after he was released by England to prepare with his County for the Ashes.

Moeen will link up with his international team-mates after Friday's game.

They are flying out to Spain on Saturday for a training camp to prepare for the five-match series with Michael Clarke's side.