Shropshire captain James Ralph has hailed spinner Andy Gray as “the best bowler in Minor Counties cricket” ahead of the Championship clash with Wales at Bridgnorth.

Gray has taken 69 wickets in 12 three-day games for Shropshire, including 10 in the season opening draw at Herefordshire.

And Ralph believes the former Derbyshire off-spinner tops the pile in that format of the game.

“Andy is our trump card and is head and shoulders the best bowler in Minor Counties cricket, for me,” said Ralph.

“He took 16 more wickets than anybody else last season and is already topping the wickets list after one game this season.

“Bridgnorth should turn over the next three days so hopefully we will see Andy at his best.

With only Dorest managing to force a victory in the opening round of games due to the weather, the Western division is incredibly tight ahead of tomorrow’s game.

Ralph believes his side need a win if they are to have realistic aspirations of challenging for honours this season, but is wary Wales may provide one of the season’s major challenges.

“Wales have become a team to watch because they call on a lot of Glamorgan players,” he added.

“In the past, they have been a representative team for Wales club sides, but now Glamorgan players with First Class experience are regularly involved.

“It’s going to be tough but it’s a game we need to try and win.”

The action begins at 11am tomorrow, Monday and Tuesday.