Shropshire were given a stern workout by a strong Worcestershire side in a pre-season friendly at Shrewsbury School. The visitors, who fielded a number of first-team players, posted a formidable total of 334 for 8 in their 50 overs before Shropshire responded with 237 for 9.
Worcestershire Dominate Early Exchanges
Worcestershire won the toss and elected to bat, with openers Ed Pollock and Tom Fell putting on 89 for the first wicket. Pollock was the first to fall for 45, but Fell went on to make a fluent 78. The visitors continued to score freely, with Jack Haynes adding 52 and Ben Cox 43. Shropshire's bowlers toiled hard, with the pick of the attack being spinner Sam Whitney, who claimed 3 for 52.
Shropshire Fight Back in Reply
In reply, Shropshire got off to a solid start with openers Tom Collins and Ross Aucott adding 54 before Collins fell for 28. Aucott went on to make a well-compiled 67, while captain Joe Carrasco chipped in with 44. However, the run rate required proved too much, and Shropshire finished on 237 for 9. Worcestershire's bowlers shared the wickets, with paceman Josh Tongue taking 2 for 31.
Positive Signs for Shropshire
Despite the defeat, Shropshire coach Ed Foster was encouraged by his side's performance. "It was a really good workout for us against a very strong Worcestershire side," he said. "We showed some good character with the bat to get close to their total, and there were plenty of positives to take from the game."
Key Performances
For Worcestershire, Tom Fell's 78 was the standout innings, while Ed Pollock and Jack Haynes also made valuable contributions. For Shropshire, Ross Aucott's 67 and Sam Whitney's 3 for 52 were the highlights.
