July 2009 Worcestershire:
Have received 28 days notice of approach from Kent for paceman Chris Whelan. But the Royals have responded by indicating Whelan will be offered a new deal with his current one expiring at the end of the current campaign. The 23-year-old made the move from Middlesex to New Road two years ago after a lack of first team opportunities. And Whelan took advantage of injuries to Kabir Ali and Simon Jones to cement his place in the side this season - he is currently their leading wicket-taker. Worcestershire director of cricket Steve Rhodes confirmed: "Kent have made an approach for Chris. "But, given the way he has bowled this season, there is every chance he will be offered a contract here." Whelan began his career with Lancashire and took his first five-wicket haul against them in the LV County Championship match at New Road last month. He is the second Worcestershire player to attract interest from other counties with Surrey and Yorkshire having already given 28 days notice of approach for wicketkeeper Steve Davies.
Smith and Noffke lead Worcs
Ashley Noffke and Ben Smith hit half-centuries to boost Worcestershire’s fortunes in the LV= County Championship match against Sussex at New Road. Australian Noffke led the way with 89 while Smith made 80 before the hosts were bowled out for 288 in 89.3 overs with paceman Corey Collymore taking 3-42. Sussex, who like bottom-of-the-table Worcestershire are still seeking their first Division One win of the season, were 17 for none off four overs in reply at stumps. Smith was run out in sight of collecting his first championship century since July 2006, while Noffke notched his highest score in the competition. His previous best had been 76 for Middlesex against Worcestershire at New Road in 2002.