Shropshire in swoop for Chris Whelan

Former Worcestershire and Middlesex paceman Chris Whelan is set to make his Shropshire debut when they launch their Minor Counties Championship cricket campaign this weekend.

Whelan, who was released from Worcestershire at the end of last season and has played club cricket for Liverpool this season, has been registered with Shropshire and named in the 12-man squad to face Cheshire at Bridgnorth in the three-day western division clash starting on Sunday. And, in another boost for Shropshire, Hampshire have handed permission for batsman Bilal Shafayat to also be included.

The signing of Whelan, who has 23 first-class appearances to his name after spending four years with Middlesex before signing for Worcestershire in 2008, is a major fillip for Shropshire in their quest to bounce back from exiting the one-day MCCA Trophy at the first hurdle.

“We are delighted to have Chris on board,” said Foster.

“Over the last few years we have probably lacked a bit of depth in the seam bowling department.

“He has been having trials with some counties in second teams and has done well so it’s a good addition.”

Shropshire feared their association with Shafayat, who signed as a professional at the start of the season, had ended after he agreed a one-year-deal with Hampshire last month.

But both player and club have given the green light for the 27-year-old – who is currently playing in Hampshire’s County Championship Division Two game against Kent – to feature against Cheshire.

Newport paceman Mark Downes and Shrewsbury batsman Tom Cox are out through work commitments.

Shrewsbury strike bowler Mike Barnard is also unavailable while his team-mates Stephen and Joe Leach are likely to miss the three-day campaign as they have summer contracts with Worcestershire.

Squad: Ed Foster (captain Shrewsbury), Alex Blofield, Dan Bowen (both Shrewsbury), Jack Edwards (Shifnal), Rob Foster (Shrewsbury), Jonty Mountford (Shifnal), Richard Oliver (Reigate Priory) Anthony Parker (Shifnal), James Ralph (Bridgnorth),Bilal Shafayat (Hampshire), Chris Whelan (Liverpool), Jono Whitney (Bridgnorth).