AUSTRALIAN pace bowlers Ashley Noffke and Ben Hilfenhaus have emerged as candidates to be Gloucestershire's overseas star next year.

It is believed both are on the county's list of possibles to replace Aussie batsman Marcus North.

Queenslander Noffke, 31, had a successful month with Gloucestershire early last season and fits the bill as someone who is not likely to have his availability affected by international commitments.

Tasmanian Hilfenhaus, 25, has played one-day international cricket for Australia.

Gloucestershire team mentor Jack Russell revealed yesterday that the county aim to sign an experienced domestic pace bowler before finalising who they will make their overseas target.

Russell said the county want to make at least four or five signings this winter in the wake of a dismal four-day campaign.

It looks likely Gloucestershire will finish the season with a defeat to Essex today after the home side closed the third day's play at Bristol on 175-3, requiring a further 140 to make the visitors bat again.

Even if defeat is avoided, Gloucestershire look certain to end the season without a Championship win, and it is believed that has never happened before to the county in the 118 years of the competition.

Russell acknowledged: "There is a lot of work to be done in terms of getting this squad back up to strength.

"It's hard to expect (Jon) Lewis and (Steve) Kirby to front the bowling on their own."

Gloucestershire avoided a three-day defeat yesterday, thanks to unbeaten half-centuries from Kadeer Ali and Taylor when following on.

Gloucestershire had advanced from 73-2 to 163-5 in the morning session, only to lose their last five wickets for 28 runs in 9.4 overs after lunch.

However, Kadeer (92) and Taylor (58) halted the clatter of wickets in the follow on, by batting out the final 34 overs of the day.

Both players will be hoping to sign off with a third Championship century today.