SOMERSET all-rounder Lewis Gregory will captain England Lions on both the four-day and 50-over legs of their upcoming Australia tour.

Gregory, 27, has captained the Lions on two previous occasions - against Pakistan and Australia A - and has also built up leadership experience as Somerset's T20 skipper.

In the 50-over series, Gregory's vice-captain will be his county teammate, Somerset captain Tom Abell.

Lancashire's Keaton Jennings will be vice-captain in the four-day matches.

The Lions are in Lougborough today (Tuesday) and tomorrow for a preparation camp, where they have been joined by Moeen Ali and Tim Bresnan to offer an insight into playing in Australia.

On his appointment, Gregory - who made his senior England debut during November's IT20 series in New Zealand - said: "It’s an honour to be chosen to captain the Lions again and I’m looking forward to what will be a great challenge in Australia.

"I can’t wait to lead the team out at the iconic MCG against Australia A and try to lay a foundation for future England success Down Under across the whole tour.

“I’m fortunate to have some good experience around me, including Tom and Keaton – my vice-captains.

"It’s important to have reliable people to turn to for advice, as well as players who have experience of playing in Australian conditions, such as Mason Crane, Craig Overton and Richard Gleeson.

“It promises to be a tough but rewarding tour and one that will help all of us improve our games in unfamiliar conditions.”

ECB Performance Director Mo Bobat said: “Lewis was an obvious choice to captain the Lions in Australia and I’m confident he’ll bring out the best in our two squads.

“His previous experience leading the Lions shows that he commands the respect of his teammates.

“Tom and Keaton will provide great support in the white and red ball formats respectively, both of whom have captaincy experience in county cricket."

Along with Gregory and Abell, Somerset duo Dom Bess and Craig Overton - both of whom are currently with the senior England squad in South Africa - will join the Lions squad in Australia.