DORSET have called up Bournemouth batsman Ben Bridgen for their penultimate three-day game of the season against Wales, starting in Abergavenny tomorrow (11am).

Debutant Bridgen has been in good form for the Chapel Gate outfit in recent weeks, including a solid knock of 89 for the Lions against Hursley Park in Division One of the Southern Premier League last weekend.

He comes into the Dorset side to replace all-rounder Tom Hicks who is unavailable.

Former Wimborne & Colehill opener Bridgen was part of a group of Dorset players who had the rare opportunity to train together earlier this week.

And skipper Chris Park believes that the spirit in the camp is strong going into the clash.

“We rarely have the chance to get together outside of games in the summer, but we met up to chat about a few things and get prepared which was really good,” he told Echosport.

Commenting on Bridgen, the skipper added: “Ben obviously got a big score last weekend and he is someone who has been on the radar since the start of the season.

“With Tom unavailable, we felt we needed to strengthen the batting department a little bit.

“It’s not a like-for-like replacement but it’s another chance for a Dorset lad to experience Minor Counties Cricket.”

Dorset have already sealed a one-day victory over Wales earlier this season, and just seven points separate the two sides in the Unicorns County Championship Western Division.

  • Park also wished to extend his thanks to Bournemouth Sports Club for providing the side with the facilities for their training this week.

Dorset: Khan, Porter, Scott, Webb, Lintott, Bridgen, Park, Wolstenholme, Kitson,Thomson, Hayman