Bridgnorth snap up Worcestershire pace bowler Charlie Morris

The 23-year-old was lined up to make his debut for the club today in a match at Walmley, just a week before the Birmingham League season begins.

Morris will feature for the division one outfit when his county commitments allow.

He has already taken more than 100 first-class wickets, has best county championship figures of 5-54 and was a nominee for the Cricket Writers' Club young cricketer of the year award in 2014.

"The club is delighted that Charlie has agreed to join us," said Bridgnorth vice-chairman Ian Roe.

"We got wind a couple of weeks ago that he was available.

"He's going to strengthen our bowling and we just hope that he can help create further success at the club."

Bridgnorth tackle the lofty heights of division one cricket for the first time this summer and are fully aware of the standards required. Morris will not be the only new face. "It's the highest level the club has ever played at, so we need to strengthen," added Roe. "We've had one or two players leave us, which is always a shame, due to work commitments and other reasons.

"But with a new captain, Sam Whitney, in place he has been very proactive with his vice-captain and other officers.

"His brother Jono went to Bunbury in Western Australia to play and has been looking out for a bowler for us – Rowan Harland will be signing for us next week.

"We were speaking last week to Ollie Westbury (Shrewsbury), who played with him at Bunbury, and he told us Rowan would be a great asset for Bridgnorth."

"We know it's a huge jump from division two, but we're looking to hold our own.

"Last year was a fairytale. Let's hope that continues this year, people come to support us at Cricket Meadow and we go out to play positive, attacking cricket."