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ROWING legend James Cracknell is set to dance on this year’s Strictly — a year after his now estranged wife barred him.

Beverley Turner, 45, outlawed James, 47, from the show saying she didn’t want him having “some Russian f***y in his face every week”.

 James Cracknell is going on Strictly after his marriage split in April
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James Cracknell is going on Strictly after his marriage split in AprilCredit: Getty - Contributor

But two-time Olympic gold medallist James is now said to be “keen to give it a go” following their split in April after 17 years of marriage.

Producers have already sent a professional dancer to the dad of three’s home for a formal pairing test.

A BBC1 source said: “James has always been interested in doing some reality TV but after getting offered Strictly Come Dancing last year Beverley put her foot down.

“She always trusted James but she told pals she didn’t want ‘some Russian f***y in his face every week’ as part of the competition.”

 Strictly dancers Oti Mabuse, Nadiya Bychkova, Dianne Buswell, Karen Clifton and Katya Jones
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Strictly dancers Oti Mabuse, Nadiya Bychkova, Dianne Buswell, Karen Clifton and Katya JonesCredit: PA
 Olympic gold medallist James has already had a pairing test with a Strictly pro
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Olympic gold medallist James has already had a pairing test with a Strictly proCredit: EPA
 James Cracknell, centre, rows for Cambridge during this year's Boat Race
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James Cracknell, centre, rows for Cambridge during this year's Boat RaceCredit: AFP or licensors
 Last year Beverley Turner told pals she didn’t want ‘some Russian f***y' in her husband's face
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Last year Beverley Turner told pals she didn’t want ‘some Russian f***y' in her husband's faceCredit: Getty - Contributor
 Rugby star Ben Cohen dumped his wife after 23 years for Russian Strictly partner Kristina Rihanoff
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Rugby star Ben Cohen dumped his wife after 23 years for Russian Strictly partner Kristina RihanoffCredit: PA:Press Association
 Ben's ex wife Abby Blayney said of Kristina: 'My husband has left me for a f*****g Russian dancer'
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Ben's ex wife Abby Blayney said of Kristina: 'My husband has left me for a f*****g Russian dancer'Credit: Handout

The source added: “Now they’re not together, James wants to go on the show. He thinks it will be good for his profile. He’s not signed the contract yet but everyone’s keen.

“The irony is that because of his height he’ll probably be paired with one of the taller, statuesque dancers. Beverley’s fear may yet come true!”

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