DORSET head coach Paul Prichard has emphasised the selection policy in picking young players from the area, insisting “that’s the best thing for county cricket in Dorset”.

The former Essex captain has helped orchestrate a rejuvenated Dorset squad in the MCCA Knockout Trophy this term, having won all three of their opening group games to qualify for the quarter-final stages of the competition.

The Minor Counties side will be looking to ensure they top the group and secure a home tie in the last eight when they lock horns with Devon at Bashley tomorrow (11am).

Asked by Echosport how important he feels it is to pick players from the county, Prichard added: “It’s exceptionally important, that’s why we have taken the stance we have in picking people from Dorset.

“I’d rather play a young guy from Dorset than pick from outside the county. That’s the way we have approached it and I think that’s the best thing for the longevity of county cricket in Dorset.

“We have got some reasonable young players coming through and to give them every opportunity to play at Minor Counties level and hopefully beyond is what we should be all about and that’s what we are doing.”

Giving his thoughts ahead of the crunch fixture, he added: “Devon need to come here, win, and win well.

“We will be prepared for them and prepared to win the game and hopefully make it four out of four and try and get a home draw.

“I am exceptionally happy but I am happier for the players.

“They have struggled a bit in one-day cricket over the years and that can’t do your confidence any good.

“We have made conscious efforts to start from scratch this season and build some new plans and ways about one-day cricket. So far the lads have stepped up to the plate brilliantly.”

Also giving his thoughts on the clash with Devon, where the weather could play a part, skipper Chris park added: “We need to get our game heads on really, we can’t just sit around and think it’s going to rain.

"We could be playing 10-over cricket at six o’clock at night. It could happen.”