Skipper Daryl Mitchell has hailed Worcestershire all-rounder Joe Leach as "one of the most improved cricketers I have ever seen."
Mitchell admits that Leach may have been unfortunate not to be part of the Worcestershire line-up at the start of the season.
But Leach has grabbed his chance with both hands and taken 27 LV = County Championship wickets in four matches in addition to scoring 242 runs.
Mitchell said: "I can’t speak highly enough of Joe’s impact so far this season. He’s taken his chance with both hands.
"He came in last season and did well and was perhaps a little bit unfortunate not to be included in the starting line-up at the beginning of the campaign.
"He played cricket in Canberra (for North Canberra Gungahlin) over the winter and has worked incredibly hard at his game.
"I think he is probably one of the most improved cricketers I have ever seen.
"Joe's batting has improved and, without sounding harsh, his bowling was not really too threatening.
"But that has changed and he is a different bowler than when he first arrived at the club."
