Lewis Gregory backs Tom Banton to star at highest level

The Somerset pair are both part of Eoin Morgan’s squad for the five-match series and both featured in the side’s second warmup match – an eight-wicket defeat against a New Zealand XI

Lewis Gregory has backed Tom Banton to impress when England’s T20I series against New Zealand begins.

The Somerset pair are both part of Eoin Morgan’s squad for the five-match series and both featured in the side’s second warmup match – an eight-wicket defeat against a New Zealand XI.

Colin Munro struck an unbeaten century for the hosts as England were ultimately well beaten, despite making 188 themselves.

Gregory made a quickfire 11-ball 29, while Banton made a second successive low score in the pre-series matches.

The allrounder, however, is unconcerned by his county teammate’s form as he heads towards a likely international debut.

“I’m not sure there’s too much going on up top with Bants so I’m not sure he’s going to be too worried,” Gregory said.

“He had an absolutely fantastic Vitality Blast. I watched him in the nets the other day, he was striking it pretty well, so if that opportunity comes for him I’m sure he’ll take it.”

He added: “There’s no real ceiling on him. He hits the ball 360 (degrees), he’s not too worried about what’s coming at him and he’s inventive and powerful.

“This format is seriously suited towards him and I’ve no doubt he will succeed at the highest level.”

Banton was the second-highest run-scorer in the T20 Blast even though Somerset failed to qualify for the latter stages of the competition.

His reward – as well as a maiden England call-up – is a busy winter; he will play the first half of the Big Bash for Brisbane Heat, as well as featuring in the T10 League for the Qalandars franchise.