Steve Leach: Shifnal move not for money

Shropshire's new county cricket captain completed a shock move earlier this week, after a successful spell at London Road.

After playing a key part in Shrewsbury's Birmingham League Premier Division title-winning campaign, the 21-year-old will now be playing in Division Two.

But Leach, who is replacing James Ralph as Shropshire skipper, is hopeful it will only be a short-term sacrifice.

The Staffordshire-based batsman said: "(Shifnal skipper) Tom (Collins) contacted me and I was really impressed by the ambition of the club and where they want to go.

"I see no reason why it can't be one of the top clubs in the area – or more – going forward. They've improved their facilities and have a great crop of young players.

"I had a really great time at Shrewsbury and enjoyed the six or seven years I played there. There's a group that's had a lot of success in winning three titles in six years.

"But guys are moving on and I look at this as a new opportunity, it's good to have a fresh challenge.

"It's not ideal to drop down two divisions but, as Shropshire captain, I was really keen to still play within the county and it's also closer to home for me. Hopefully I can help them achieve success."

Shrewsbury captain Rob Foster admits he is disappointed to lose the prolific opener to a lower division side.

Leach, the younger brother of new Worcestershire vice-captain Joe, plundered 808 runs for Shrewsbury at an average of 42.5 last season.

Foster said: "It's disappointing that a player of Steve's class has chosen to drop down a few divisions and play for money.

"It's a decision I totally understand from his point of view, we're not in a position as a club to pay people for playing.

"But I think he should be playing at as good a standard as possible as he again showed this year what a good player he is in the Premier Division."