Boon pleased with Taylor call-up

Date: Sunday 10 January 2010

Leicestershire Senior Coach Tim Boon has spoken of his pleasure of learning that James Taylor has won an England Lions call-up.

Taylor was included in the Lions squad for the UAE tour in February and Boon feels it is just reward for his achievements throughout 2009.

He said: “Going on the Lions tour is a reward for his success during last season in all competitions. I am delighted for him.

“His work ethic and attitude has been exceptional. He had a successful winter at the England Performance Programme in South Africa, where he excelled in all aspects.

“And, when he was given the opportunity to perform, he scored runs at the right time.”

Boon feels Taylor’s “passion and commitment” to his profession will stand him in good stead for the tour. He also praised the youngster’s work ethic.

“James is becoming a brilliant role model not only for the youngsters at the club, but also his team mates at Leicestershire,” said Boon.

“He sets high standards and a benchmark. He came back for training with us when he didn’t need to, and refused to blame the weather for anything when he came back from South Africa. He just gets on with things.

“He has no excuses and has lots of passion and commitment. James is a level-headed young man and we wish him all the best.”

Meanwhile, England National selector Geoff Miller said he was impressed with Taylor's performances last summer.

"He's a very, very shrewd cookie - who played very well last year," said Miller. "He's worked well in the performance squad too. It will be interesting to see how he goes in foreign conditions."

ECB Performance Director David Parsons, who helped to run the EPP, feels the Lions squad has extremely good shape.

He said: "We have an excellent balance of younger players who are just beginning to stake their claim for international honours and players with plenty of experience at full international or county level in this England Lions squad, and I have no doubt that every member will gain a huge amount from the three week tour.

“We ran a very successful Performance Programme during November and December and I am delighted that six players from this year's EPP have been selected for this tour.

“This represents an opportunity for them to test themselves against quality opposition and to press their case for a place in the England side."