DORSET’S Masoor Khan reflected on his memorable opportunity to open the batting against an illustrious Hampshire attack.

The 24-year-old made an impressive top score of 36 from 38 balls for the hosts at Dean Park against bowling from internationals Yasir Arafat, Fidel Edwards and Danny Briggs before he was eventually snared leg before by Will Smith.

Reflecting on his innings, Khan insisted the key thing was not to be overawed by the occasion.

He told Echosport: “It was obviously a little bit exciting and I just thought it would be a good opportunity to express myself and enjoy it. There are not many times you get to play a first-class t20 squad.

“They are all good players and if you aspire to play at that level you have to learn to play against players like that.

“My first ball facing Fidel (Edwards) I was definitely going to charge to get the nerves and the adrenaline out of the way, but the rest is as simple as just watching the ball.”

Scores of 71 against Devon and 68 against Wiltshire has seen the Dorset opener average almost 50 in the Unicorns Knockout Trophy so far this term, and he believes that being able to pick the brains of former Somerset ace Chris Jones has helped him progress.

“I am only 24 and am still learning how to score big runs which is massive, but I think it is slowly coming together,” Khan added.

“Speaking to the likes of Jonesy, who I play club cricket and Minor Counties with, he has been a real find for me and he helps me mentally more so than other players.

“He has been so helpful in that he talks about his experiences.

“Batting with him and seeing him at the other end, he has just got an eye for patience and he reads the game more than anyone else I have spoken to.

“At the end of the game we can always grab a drink and have a chat about how we have been going.

“Seeing him on a Saturday and Sunday is really helpful.

“All the boys are learning from him and he has just changed the atmosphere in the changing room a little bit.

“He has brought that experience of playing at a high standard, which is really good for us.”