MICHAEL Bates has the chance to be a hero on his Somerset debut – ahead of a possible return to The Ageas Bowl this weekend.

The talented wicketkeeper was controversially released by Hampshire at the end of last season, but has finally been given the chance he deserves.

After signing a one-month contract following some impressive performances for Somerset’s 2nd XI, Bates is playing his first LV County Championship match since his last for Hampshire a year ago.

He has replaced Alex Barrow, who averages 13.3 with the bat this season and missed a couple of key chances in Somerset’s game against Durham last week, for their latest match against Nottinghamshire at Taunton.

After being dismissed for one in Somerset’s first innings - one of seven victims for Notts’ debutant Matthew Carter, a teenage off-spinner - Bates will get another chance to bat on the final day.

It will begin with Somerset 274-5 – needing 127 to win, with Bates one of the four remaining Somerset batsmen.

Whatever happens, he is likely to play against his former teammates when Hampshire take on Somerset at The Ageas Bowl from Sunday.

Hampshire captain Jimmy Adams said: “It’s great to see Batesy’s back in the game, his story is one of the unluckiest I’ve seen.

“It was a very tough call [for the club to release him], there were mixed feelings about it from supporters and even players.

“He was a good part of the group but it’s very tough when you’ve got a few quality players vying for one position.

“I’m delighted for him and I hope he gets runs for them – but not against us if he plays on Sunday!”

Somerset director of cricket Matt Maynard said: “Michael’s impressed with the seconds, Alex Barrow’s form has dipped recently and [reserve-wicketkeeper] James Regan has only just come back after three weeks out.

“He’s got a good record behind the stumps and has a first-class century so he’s a decent player and a good character.”

A good showing during the next month could see Bates become Somerset’s long-term wicketkeeping replacement for Lancashire and England’s Jos Buttler and Craig Kieswetter, who retired earlier this month following a freak eye injury.

The 24 year-old has also played for Oxford CC and Wiltshire since being released by Hampshire for not being prolific enough with the bat.

He averages 21 in first-class cricket and scored his century against Yorkshire at Headingley two years ago.