BRAD Wheal has left Hampshire to join Gloucestershire on a short-term loan deal, the club have confirmed.

The deal, which involves only red-ball cricket, is effective immediately.

That means Wheal will be available for Gloucestershire’s next LV= Insurance County Championship match against Somerset, which begins tomorrow.

He will return to Hampshire for the start of the Vitality Blast later this month.

Giles White, Hampshire director of cricket, said: “The loan deal provides Brad with a great opportunity to play red-ball cricket in the short term.

"We are looking forward to seeing how he performs and to welcoming him back for the Vitality Blast.”

Hampshire are next due in County Championship action from next Thursday, visiting Somerset.