Kent make move for Whelan

Worcestershire are fighting to keep paceman Chris Whelan, after Kent made a move to sign the youngster.

Worcestshire still hoping to keep bowler at New Road

The Worcestershire Royals are fighting to keep paceman Chris Whelan, after Kent made a move to sign the youngster. The 23-year-old made the move from Middlesex to New Road two years ago after a lack of opportunities with the first team. He has since taken advantage of injuries to Kabir Ali and Simon Jones to cement his place in the side this season and is currently the county's leading wicket-taker. But the Spitfires have also taken note of the bowler's achievements and have given 28 days notice of approach. 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 in May. 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. The England Lions player has been offered a new three-year deal, but wants to keep his options open until the end of the season.