Shrewsbury snap up new wicketkeeper

Parker has been Shropshire's first-choice wicketkeeper for a number of years and is renowned as a hard-hitting attacking batsman.

New Shrewsbury captain Rob Foster, who has succeeded his brother Ed at the helm, said he was pleased to have landed Parker and hailed his capture as a major boost.

Parker's arrival is all the more timely given that South African Ryan Bishop, who has worn the gloves for the London Road side for the last four summers, has decided not to return next season.

"I'm delighted Anthony has decided to join us," said Foster, whose appointment as skipper will be officially confirmed at Shrewsbury's AGM early next month.

"Ryan's kept wicket for us in recent years and has done really well but he won't be coming back next season.

"That meant the wicketkeeper situation was one we needed to address and, having played with Anthony for Shropshire, I know just how good he is. He's an excellent wicketkeeper and a seriously destructive batsman.

"I've seen him play some great knocks for Shropshire and often change games in five or six overs as he's such a powerful striker of a ball."

Parker, 29, will add experience to Shrewsbury's talented young side and Foster stressed the new-boy was excited by the challenge of playing at the highest level in the Birmingham League.

"Without being disrespectful to Shifnal, I think he had found the last couple of years there a bit frustrating," said Foster.