Six-time British Open champion and one of the UK’s greatest squash players, Jonah Barrington, believes Enfield’s Adrian Waller has the credentials to succeed at the top of the world game.

Waller, who topped every age group at junior level, lost in the first round of the World Championships in Manchester on Monday night but he took Mohamed Elshorbagy, last year’s runner-up from Egypt, to a deciding game in a thrilling contest.

Waller was 2-1 up and four points from earning a second round berth before the talented Egyptian won 11-6, 6-11, 6-11, 11-7, 11-7.

“There is a real likelihood that England will nurture with the present batch of young players,” said Barrington.

“It is possibly the best group we’ve had for quite a while. There is some consolidation taking place with impressive players like Adrian coming through so the future looks really good.”

Waller’s match hinged on two key refereeing calls late in the fourth game, which Elshorbagy ended up winning.

“Two in a row at a time like weren’t the best decisions,” admitted Waller, the world number 35.

“It was desperately close and I really believe I could win that.

“He rode his luck and it broke for him so it’s disappointing to say the least.”

Waller wants to keep his momentum and form going into the next few months on the PSA World Tour.

“Hopefully it’s the start of things to come,” admitted Waller, who is coached by Paul Carter at Potters Bar Health Club.

Asked what it meant to be hailed by Barrington as one of the sport’s future hopes.”

Waller added: “That is an honour for someone like him to say those things.

“I have to keep plugging away now.”