DORSET head into a showcase t20 event today (2.30pm) as a star-studded Hampshire line-up descends on Bournemouth to cap off the Dean Park Cricket Festival.

The Ageas Bowl outfit have named a host of international players in their squad, including West Indian paceman Fidel Edwards, who is set to play his first game in Hampshire colours.

Dorset-born duo Tom Barber and Lewis McManus, who are both on Hampshire’s books, will be part of the home squad against their employers on the day.

And Dorset skipper Chris Park, who led his side against Devon in the Unicorns Knockout Trophy yesterday, wants his younger players to treasure the moment in taking to the field against such illustrious opposition.

He told Echosport: “It’s nice for the young players because it will be some of their first times playing a professional team and it will benefit them in their careers.

“I have been lucky enough to face people like James Anderson and Andrew Flintoff.

“Facing Fidel Edwards will be the next name on the list for sure.

“When you look at people like James Vince, Jimmy Adams and Michael Carberry as well, if the weather stays nice I am expecting a good turn out and a great atmosphere at Dean Park.”

Hampshire’s Adams added: “It will be a great day as I spent a good portion of my formative cricketing years in Dorset.

“Dean Park has a wonderful history and association with Hampshire and it will be great to finally get back on the pitch there after a number of weather-affected years.”