Ben Cox admits he relishes the challenge of standing up to the stumps to Worcestershire's quicker bowlers.
Cox has been in superb form keeping wicket during the past two seasons in addition to his invaluable contributions with the bat.
He first started moving forward when facing ex County paceman Gareth Andrew and has continued to do the same to members of the current bowling line-up.
It involves intense concentration with less time to anticipate and react compared to when standing back – but it is something he thrives on.
Cox said: "I did it to Gaz Andrew when he was here. I enjoy going up to the stumps for the quicks. It's a great time to show off your skill.
"Yes, it rushes you, it tests you out and every ball is a challenge – and I enjoy challenges. That is why I am eager to go up to the stumps.
"I don't like it sometimes when I am stood back. I feel more in the game standing up and you've got extra chances, like a leg side stumping, you are bringing in. I love it up there."
Cox added: "The bowlers don't like me up there because they automatically think they are slow. But it is the bowler who decides it because he is setting the plans.
"He has got a plan for each batter so it is up to him. There are signals for certain deliveries – like a bouncer, for example."
