VICE-CAPTAIN Lloyd Sabin says the selection of Rob Keat is an example to local young players that they will be rewarded for good performances with an Oxfordshire call-up.

The county have picked the Didcot seamer for their Unicorns Counties Championship clash against Shropshire, which begins at Shifnal on Sunday.

Keat has impressed for Oxon’s 2nd XI as well as his club side in Cherwell League Division 2 this season and will make his senior debut.

Sabin said: “I think that’s the policy the selectors are trying to implement this year.

“If you’re performing well for your club, you will be in the hat and that’s proved with Keat’s position.

“A lot of the guys have not played a lot of three-day cricket and will have to learn very quickly.”

Keat’s selection for Oxon has delighted his Didcot clubmates.

Skipper Jordan Morrison said: “Rob has worked very hard at his game and is now getting the reward he deserves.

“Rob has come through the age groups and we take pride in our strong junior set-up.”

Keat is the first player from the club to be called up to play in the Championship.

Didcot’s Vishane Perera, who featured for Oxon while with Oxford, is also selected.

Clubmates David Slade and Richard Cook have represented the county, but not while members of the side.

Keat and Perera are among six changes from the victory over Devon.

James Fitzjohn will also make his debut, with Harry Smith coming in for his first championship match, while Olly Clarke and Callum Russell are also named in the XI.

They replace Richard Kaufman, Miles Hammond, Harrison Ward, Jack Wilkins, Tom Condon and Jordan Garrett.

SUNDAY’S TEAM

Oxon: J Cater (Buckingham Tn) capt, L Bethell (Aston Rowant), O Clarke (Banbury), H Eltham (Oxford), J Fitzjohn (Horspath), R Keat, V Perera (both Didcot), C Russell (Thame Tn), L Sabin (Banbury), H Smith (Gt & Little Tew), B Taylor (Banbury).