Worcestershire Director Of Cricket Steve Rhodes says Ed Barnard will develop into "one hell of a cricketer" if he continues to emulate the progress made in his first full season of senior cricket.
Rhodes believes Barnard's statistics last summer – 31 County Championship wickets at an average of 43.58 runs apiece – did not do justice to a series of encouraging performances with the ball.
Only Joe Leach picked up more Championship wickets with Barnard playing 14 of the 16 games and sometimes getting a taste of sharing the new ball.
He also scored 430 Championship runs at an average of 26.87 predominantly batting at nine or ten in the order although his career best 73 at Derby was achieved as a nightwatchman.
The 20-year-old, who batted in the top six for England Under-19s, is keen to eventually move up the order.
Rhodes said: "Did he have a good first season? Yes. His stats didn't show it but that was really harsh on Barny.
"Myself, Matt Mason and the colleagues who played alongside him recognise he actually made some big strides last year.
"Hopefully, if he can make some similar strides moving forward next season, he is going to be one hell of a cricketer.
"He bats, he bowls, he fields, he has got a great attitude, is a very professional person, and hopefully he will get some reward for all that effort he puts in.
"He has got good skills and he is one we can call young – because he is! – and he will get better and better."
