The 16th series of the NTA and Bafta award-winning entertainment show produced by BBC Studios will return in the autumn on BBC One putting the sparkle back into Saturday and Sunday nights.

Graeme says: “It’s true - I’ve signed up for Strictly! I’m hoping to follow in the footsteps of the cricketers who’ve come before me who’ve either won the whole thing or had an absolute ball on the show. Keeping it under wraps from my kids has been nearly impossible; they are huge fans of the show and I can’t wait to see their faces when I tell them. I don’t have any background in dancing but can do the floss so let’s hope this comes in useful!”

Graeme is a world-renowned cricketer who began his England career in a one-day international at Bloemfontein but he wasn’t to make his Test debut for eight years, after spending time honing his skills at his home county club of Northampton and subsequently

Nottinghamshire. His 2008 Test debut as part of the England team against India at Chennai was a turning point in his career and he went on to become one of our greatest ever spin bowlers. Graeme was part of the victorious England team who claimed the Ashes back from Australia, where he delivered the winning wicket to secure the victory. He is a popular commentator on Test Match Special for the BBC.

The news was revealed this evening on BBC Radio 2’s Drivetime show presented by Angela Scanlon and OJ Borg.

The remaining celebrity contestants joining the new series will be announced in due course.