Shrewsbury cricketer in England under-19 call
Shrewsbury cricketer Ed Barnard has been called up to the England under-19 squad for a tour of South Africa in January.
Barnard's selection caps a fine year after he graduated to Shropshire's senior ranks for a Minor Counties clash against Devon in August, as well as representing the England Schools Cricket Association at Lords.
The all-rounder, who only turned 17 last month and is on the books of Worcestershire, showcased his talent when he was the leading wicket taker for the Midlands at the Bunbury Festival in Monmouth last year.
Barnard has been in the England Development Programme for the past two years, but selectors have recognised his progress by including him in their preparations for the Under-19 World Cup in 2014.
Shrewsbury captain Rob Foster is delighted for Barnard, saying "it's amazing given Ed's age.
"The ECB have clearly picked him as one for the future given he's playing a couple of years above his age.
"You would be delighted to be selected for the England Under-19s as a 19-year-old, so to be picked at Ed's age is a real achievement."
