Key allrounder Rob Foster is on course to win his fitness battle for Shrewsbury’s National Knockout final on Saturday, writes JAMES?GARRISON.

The 24-year-old had emerged as a major doubt after injuring his right hand in the Birmingham League premier division victory over Knowle & Dorridge a fortnight ago.

But Foster came through his side’s concluding pre-final training session last night and is set to be included for the meeting with Cambridge Granta at Derbyshire’s County Ground on Saturday.

“Rob trained last night and, having come through that, I think he will play,” said captain and Rob’s older brother Ed Foster.

“I’m not sure it was particularly comfortable for him but he spent time batting and bowling, so I think he will take a few painkillers and get out there.

“Rob’s a big player for us so it will be a big boost.”

Shrewsbury have named a 12-man squad for Saturday’s final – which begins at 11am – and have no other selection problems.

With overseas players ineligible for the 45-overs-per-side competition, Australian Paul Donaldson misses out and he is replaced by highly-rated 15-year-old Ed Barnard, who has been a regular in the run to the final.

Squad : Ed Foster, Ryan Bishop, Stephen Leach, Joe Leach, Rob Foster, Tom Cox, Alex Blofield, Stephen Barnard, Ed Barnard, Mike Barnard, Elliot Green, Will Parton.

l Barnard advice – Page 47