Ed Foster has called on Shrewsbury’s batsmen to deliver as the London Roaders look to build on their opening day victory in the Birmingham League’s premier division when they travel to promoted Smethwick on Saturday.
Skipper Foster was pleased to bank 24 points at the first time of asking after Shrewsbury overcame Walsall by 12 runs in a low scoring clash last weekend.
But he’s now looking for his batsmen to find their form as runs were also hard to come by in the club’s two pre-season cup victories.
“It’s time for the batters to put their hand up,” said Foster.
“They’ve had a couple of cracks in the middle and now we need them to kick on and improve. No-one’s gone on and got a big score yet.”
Contracted player Jack Shantry provided much of the inspiration against Walsall, top scoring with 42 and then taking five wickets, but his busy schedule with Worcestershire means he is likely to be unavailable for Shrewsbury this weekend.
“It was a bonus to have Jack in the side and he produced a really good performance,” said Foster.
“He enjoyed it so hopefully we’ll see more of him.”
Shantry is currently involved in a County Championship clash against Leicestershire at Grace Road with England Lions star Jimmy Taylor on the opposing side.
And Foster insists it’s great for the club to see the former Shrewsbury team-mates both doing so well in their careers. “It’s fantastic for the club that two players who were in the same Shrewsbury team not too long ago are now playing in the first class game,” said Foster.
“Jimmy actually popped down to see the lads at our game last weekend as he was back in Shrewsbury which was nice.”
Foster is now looking forward to locking horns with a Smethwick side back in the top division after gaining promotion last season.
“They’re a good side and can be quite dangerous on their day,” he added. “Moeen Ali, the Worcestershire batsman, played for them last weekend but I wouldn’t have thought he’ll be available on Saturday.”
Shrewsbury have yet to finalise their side as they have doubts over a couple of players.
By Stuart Dunn
