Players return for Minor Counties clash

Strike bowlers Michael Barnard and Steve Taylor will return for Shropshire's Minor Counties Championship trip to Oxfordshire this weekend.

Shrewsbury's Barnard missed the thrilling draw with Dorset at Bridgnorth last week because of a groin problem, while Taylor - of St Georges - was unavailable.

But both players return to the starting line-up for the western division trip to Oxfordshire for a three-day game which begins on Sunday.

Shropshire will have to do without Alex Huxley, who made 91 in the second innings against Dorset.

The Oswestry opening batsman and part time leg spinner is unavailable due to work commitments so Shrewsbury's Will Parton retains his place.

Bridgnorth seamer Tom Weaver, who made his Shropshire debut on home territory last week, misses out along with Huxley.

"It's really pleasing to have both Michael and Steve back," said captain Ed Foster.

"Michael has had a groin problem for a couple of weeks and didn't play any cricket last weekend.

"If he is not fit, he won't play but we will look at the injury every day this week and we are hopeful it will be fine.

"It's a blow that Alex is unavailable given the good performances he has put in for the county this season.

"But Will played nicely when we were setting a target against Dorset and has a long Shropshire career ahead of him."

No decision has been made on who will open the batting with Foster in the absence of Huxley.

The team for Oxfordshire is: Ed Foster (Shrewsbury, captain), Chris Murtagh (Reigate), Rob Foster (Shrewsbury), Richard Oliver (Whitchurch), Jono Whitney (Bridgnorth),Will Parton (Shrewsbury), Andy Gray (Alvaston & Boulton), Matt Tilt (St Georges), Steve Taylor (St Georges), Michael Barnard (Shrewsbury), Dan Bowen (Whitchurch).

By JAMES GARRISON