Worcestershire bowling coach Matt Mason believes opening bowler Jack Shantry "deserves to be talked about" as a potential England bowler in T20 and Test cricket.
Mason feels that a lack of sheer pace should not count against left armer Shantry when the selectors consider their options.
He points to the likes of Sri Lankan Chaminda Vaas – a former Worcestershire player – who proved their worth at international level without bowling at express speed.
Shantry has taken 32 wickets in the LV County Championship so far this season and consistently takes the new ball in NatWest T20 Blast cricket.
Mason said: "In terms of T20, I think it really helps us having someone like Jack Shantry upfront.
"He just loves bowling in that first powerplay and his statistics are as good as anyone who has played for England if you have a look.
"I think he is unlucky not to be talked about (by England).
"He has also taken 30 odd wickets in the Championship and again his statistics are as good as anyone.
"I can't put my finger on why he doesn't play. I think England sometimes are hell bent on pace whereas I think if you've got high skill……..
"You look at the likes of Chaminda Vaas and other bowlers through history who haven't had huge amounts of pace but great control and skill – and Jack has that.
"He has probably got more determination and will to succeed than anyone.
"I'm hoping by the end of the year that maybe a few of the guys in the England set-up will start taking him seriously.
"We push all our players to get recognition but Jack is someone who has played over 100 games in all forms and deserves to be talked about."
