MOEEN Ali is relishing being part of the England set-up but that does not stop him keeping in regular touch about the fortunes of Worcestershire – sometimes with the help of former captain Phil Neale.

Moeen is in the squad for tomorrow’s first Investec Test with India at Trent Bridge and will be fully focused on playing for his country as he looks to build on his encouraging performances in the two Tests versus Sri Lanka at Lord’s and Headingley.

But, when the opportunity arises or permits, he is always keen to stay abreast of events at New Road where his outstanding recent form helped earn him the international call.

Moeen said: “I am very pleased to be playing for England but when I do play for England, I miss playing for Worcestershire.

“I keep my eye when I’m with England on the Worcestershire scores all the time. I do that as much as I can, almost every session whenever I can.

“As soon as the game finishes, I always check the score. “I am always asking Phil Neale (team operations manager) what the score is. He’s got his phone with him.”

n A thanksgiving service in memory of Damian D'Oliveira will be held at New Road on Monday, July 28, starting at 2pm.

Former player and academy director D’Oliveira passed away aged 53 after a long battle against cancer. All are welcome to attend the service, which will take place in the Graeme Hick Pavilion.

The Second Eleven Trophy match with Durham at Brandon has been put back 24 hours to allow the players to attend along with the first team squad and coaching staff.

A private family cremation service will be held at Worcester Crematorium.