HEAD coach Kevin Sharp believes Worcestershire all-rounder Ed Barnard has the potential to play at the highest level.

Barnard gave the latest demonstration of his ability with match figures of 11-89 and scores of 50 and 45 not out with the bat in County Championship Division One against Somerset at Taunton.

It followed his 47 wickets and nearly 600 Championship runs last summer when he was voted the Supporters’ Association player of the year.

Barnard has already represented England at under 19 level, playing in the 2014 World Cup, and Sharp believes full honours could come his way.

He said: "The massive performance at Taunton was that of Ed with the ball and the bat.

“He is a fine all-rounder with the potential to play at the highest level.

“He is a fine, young cricketer, a real genuine all-rounder, he bats and bowls beautifully and is a good fielder.

“The future for him is very bright.

“Can he get a Lions call-up soon? If he goes on performing, the answer is yes, absolutely.

“I know he was involved at England under 19 level but he has probably gone under the radar a bit the last couple of years.

“If he keeps stacking up performances like this, then the ECB will take notice very quickly.”

Sharp added: “Ed is working on putting on a bit of extra pace all the time. Alan (Richardson) is working closely with him on that.

“They are looking to try to get an extra yard from him through some technical work and Barny is buying into that. That will come as the season develops.”

Sharp believes that long term Barnard will also move up the batting order at Blackfinch New Road.

He said: “Can I see him batting in the top six? Yes, of course.

"He is that sort of all-rounder where a lot is asked of him with the ball but batting at number six would certainly be a definite option in due course.”

Barnard will bid to continue his fine form when the County open their Championship home programme against Nottinghamshire from Friday (11am).