Worcestershire CCC Head Coach Kevin Sharp says performances at Second Eleven level is the way for players to put themselves “in the frame” to compete for a senior spot.
The Seconds launched their Championship campaign today (Tuesday) against local rivals Warwickshire at the Portland Ground – the former M and B ground – in Birmingham.
Ross Whiteley and Adam Wiffen scored centuries last week for the Seconds in the drawn encounter with Somerset Seconds at Taunton Vale.
Both are included in the squad for the clash with the Bears although unfortunately rain washed out the first day without a ball being bowled.
The Worcestershire top six have had to battle for runs on seamer-friendly pitches against Hampshire and Somerset respectively.
Sharp said: “Can people put their names in the hat? Of course. I know we are only two games in but you don’t rest on your laurels.
“We are under a little bit of pressure because we have lost two games.
“The top six haven’t made many runs so far and performances in the second eleven are what put people in the frame to play first team cricket.
“The selection is not fait accompli at the minute. We will see how things go.”
Second Eleven Coach Alex Gidman has included George Rhodes – who played in the opening two Specsavers County Championship matches – in the squad.
Sharp said: “George is going to play against Warwickshire and the other batters have chosen to work comprehensively on their skills this week.”
The County are also giving a trial to Warwickshire paceman Grant Thornton.
Twenty-five-year-old Thornton played two County Championship matches for Warwickshire last season against Somerset and Hampshire.
The County will hope for better luck with the elements on day two tomorrow (Wednesday).
Worcestershire Seconds:
Westbury ©
Wiffin
Dell
Whiteley
Rhodes
Malik
Twohig
Morris
Pennington
Brown
Coates (w)
Thornton
