WORCESTERSHIRE director of cricket Steve Rhodes hailed Moeen Ali’s superb century against Gloucestershire.

Moeen reverted to his normal County spot at number three and followed his 74 in the first innings with 136 not out in the drawn County Championship clash at Bristol.

It is in contrast to the spinner’s number eight role in Test cricket for England.

Rhodes said: “Moeen looked like a decent number three again. He has been a bit frustrated not having opportunities high up the order.

“He was looking forward to coming back and playing for us so he could score centuries again.

“He looked in great order. It’s testament to the batting strength in this country he bats number eight for England and I see it as a really good sign.

“Circumstances simply mean there are seven other good players ahead of him.”

Moeen struck four sixes, two of them off successive balls from Jack Taylor, and 17 fours as he completed the 15th first-class hundred of his career.

Rhodes added: “We are always happy to welcome Moeen back.

“It’s good to have him back, not just his batting but his bowling which has progressed nicely with the England set-up. Moeen loves playing for Worcestershire.”

The County welcome early leaders Essex to New Road in the Championship from Sunday (11am).