Zimbabwean maestro Andy Flower is delighted by the selection of Essex team-mates Ravindra Bopara and Graham Napier for the England Academy side.
Flower, 35, is certain they are two gems who have the ability to become world-class players.
"Young Bopara has all of the talent needed to play international cricket," Flower told the Evening Gazette.
"I like the way he pulls and hooks the quick bowlers."
Before Bopara is selected for full England honours, Flower would like to see the 18-year-old iron out some 'mental flaws', without losing any of his youthful impetuosity.
"It can often be a strength for young players to be impetuous because it means they relax and perform without any hang ups."
As for Graham Napier, 23, Flower is convinced the young all-rounder is more suited to one-day cricket, and could also be a valuable asset for England with his top-class fielding.
"Graham is a one-day specialist and has done very well for Essex.
"He bowls good seam-up deliveries and hits the ball very hard with the bat."
But Flower also insists that Napier is far from the finished article and needs to improve his bowling.
More on Essex County Cricket Club
Published Thursday November 27, 2003
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