DORCHESTER skipper Simon Mitchem was given the opportunity to showcase his skills by the county selectors on Sunday, as he received a late call-up to the Dorset Leopards’ squad to take on a Wiltshire Academy XI.

Having got the call early on the day of the game, Mitchem took his chance and opened the bowling for the Dorset side at the Hamworthy Club, with just six runs coming from his five-over spell.

Spin played a huge part in the hosts dismissing Wiltshire, who only travelled with 10 men, for just 105, with Josh Digby (3-20), Dom Clutterbuck (3-20) and Rob Pack (2-30) all taking advantage of a turning wicket.

In reply, Martinstown’s Ed Nichols continued to open the batting for the Leopards and fell for 16 before Sam Collins (54no) helped guide the side to a comfortable eight-wicket win.

Speaking about the game, all-rounder Mitchem told Echosport: “It was good fun, I had a good day and enjoyed it.

“I didn’t expect to open the bowling but it was good.

“Any form of representative cricket is good to play. It’s good to represent your county.

“I am available if they come calling again.”

Asked whether he was surprised by his late selection, Mitchem replied: “I did laugh because I got a text from Dave Trotter on Saturday night saying they wanted me to play and I didn’t believe him because he always winds me up!

“I thought he was pulling my leg so I was quite surprised.”

Quizzed on the standard of the contest compared to the Dorset League, Mitchem said: “I think you can notice that the fielding is much better.

“There are some good cricketers out there and the standards are better.

“Ed has scored runs this year and I think that some guys in our league deserve a chance and it’s nice that they have got that chance.”

Also speaking after the game, opener Nichols added: “It was an enjoyable day out and it’s nice to get a chance to bat against a different bowling attack in different conditions.

“It’s a jump up in a level but it’s nothing beyond either or us and some other people.

“There are some good players around (the Dorset League) and the only way to find out is for them to play really.”