Ben Gibbon’s promising debut for Worcestershire has earned praise from Head Coach Alex Gidman and all-rounder Ed Barnard.
The left-arm pace bowler earned a call-up for the home LV=Insurance County Championship match with Durham, returned figures of 25-4-94-2 and was Worcestershire’s most economical bowler.
Gibbon claimed two prized scalps in Keegan Petersen – South Africa’s leading run-scorer in their recent Test series win over India – and Durham’s captain and former England player, Scott Borthwick.
He then showed tremendous fighting qualities with the bat in defying the Durham attack for nearly 20 overs in partnership with Adam Finch taking valuable time out of the game as Worcestershire earned an honourable draw.
Gidman said: “The biggest compliment we can pay Ben is he didn’t look out of place.
“It was his first game, and he ran in, hit the pitch hard, was very accurate against an extremely strong top six.
“That was a tough, tough batting line-up, particularly with the overhead conditions on the opening day.
“It was tough work, and he applied himself really well.”
Barnard said: “Ben was incredibly impressive. From ball one, he flew in and bowled in really good areas.
“I think he is going to be a big part of our cricket going forward, and it is nice to have a different angle, especially with the left arm.
“He swung it, ran in all day, and he came on when Ben Stokes was hitting off and just kept a level head.
“His background as well, he has not come through the classic Academy system. He has worked hard the last couple of years playing Seconds and Minor Counties cricket.
“He has come in, worked really hard this winter and made massive strides. He has put his head down, and just got on with everything he has been told to.
“Ben has improved hugely, so I think he has got a big future ahead of him.”
