DORCHESTER vice-captain Simon Mitchem believes his side cannot afford to be complacent against Shroton in their Dorset Funeral Plan Premier League battle at Dorchester Rec tomorrow (1pm).

The county town side have impressively won all five of their matches so far but Mitchem believes Dorchester, who are without captain James Dunham and Josh Richardson, must remain consistent. 

They face a Shroton side who have also begun well, sitting comfortably in mid-table despite last week’s 21-run loss to Bere Regis. 

Mitchem told Echosport: “I know they’ve been on a run of good results until last weekend. We won’t be complacent in any shape or form. 

“We’ll approach it the same and focus on playing our cricket. If we do that we’ll put ourselves in a great position and get the result we want. 

“We’ve started really well but it’s all about consistency – it’s a long old season. We’re really pleased, we’ve set some good foundations and we’re looking to build on that.”

Dorchester batsman Eral Anderson has also been in prime form, the former Worcester League man boasting an average of 216 in four innings this season. 

Mitchem said: “Eral is very experienced and he’s played a good level of cricket. 

“He’s a good guy to have in our team and he’s strengthened our middle order massively. He’s in great form and long may that continue.”

Despite seamers Dunham and Richardson missing, Mitchem denied that Dorchester’s attack would be blunted against Shroton, as he said: “I wouldn’t say it’s weakened, it’s a different style of bowling attack with three spinners.” We’re very confident in the ability of those coming into the side – they’re proven performers at this level.”

Dan Belt, Will Caldwell, George Foot, Bharat Popli and James Caldwell come in for Dorchester with Quenton Miller, Eiron Fitzgerald and Martyn Richards absent along with Dunham and Richardson. 

Dorchester: Belt, W Caldwell, Popli, Anderson, Mitchem, McKay, J Caldwell, Owens, Roe, Walklett, G Foot