Shrewsbury set to host leaders

The London Roaders host the current Birmingham Cricket League Premier Division leaders in a clash that could prove pivotal in the title race.

Shrewsbury, who are nine points behind the table-toppers, were winners by 15 runs when the sides met in Solihull at the start of May.

But vice-chairman and key batsman Foster believes they will have to play better this time in order to record another success over a Berkswell side skippered by former Warwickshire stalwart Dominic Ostler.

“We are just past halfway and find ourselves in a decent position,” said Foster.

“It’s a big game between the top two, albeit we are part of a tight-knit mix in the top half of the table.

“I think there’s plenty of other teams in the mix. Knowle & Dorridge are not too far away, West Brom as well, and even Smethwick have proved they are a capable side.

“I’d have thought the winner will come from one of those five teams.

“Their main strength is their depth. Over the years they’ve had a good side from one to 11 and it’s not too much different this year.

“I know we beat them earlier in the season but we had to really scrap hard for that win.

“It was a performance where a couple of players put their hand up and really delivered for us.

“We’ll be fortunate to come away with maximum points this Saturday if we put in a similar kind of performance. We are going to need contributions from all of our players.

“But we fancy our chances against any side we play against.

“The whole season has been a boost to us. As I’ve said before, we’re not as strong as we have been in previous years but the way the guys have come together and the way we’ve performed has made it a great season so far.”

Shrewsbury are poised to make one change from the team that won at Moseley last weekend with former skipper Ben Stebbings back, likely coming in for James Hulton-Harop.

An impressive knock of 85 from Rob Foster helped Shrewsbury chase down their target after dismissing Moseley for 152.

And while Foster hailed an impressive win, he admits there is still room for improvement in the batting department.

“Having lost the toss and being asked to field, it was a great return from the guys on a flat pitch and a quick-scoring outfield,” he added.

“It was a good all-round bowling performance backed up a good opening partnership and a great innings from Rob.

“I know Rob got a big score last Saturday but I still think as individuals we are looking for hundreds, we’ve only got the one so far this season.

“We are still searching for that, but we know from one to 11 we can contribute with the bat which gives us a bit of re-assurance.”