DORSET off-spinner Jigar Naik insists he has found his experience of playing at Minor Counties level “really useful”.

Having been pleasantly surprised by the standard while featuring in the Dorset set-up for the first time this season, the former Leicestershire man also claimed that the Minor Counties structure provides a shop window for young players looking to make their way in the game.

Speaking to Echosport about his experiences in the Dorset set-up so far, Naik said: “I have found it really useful.

“I wasn’t sure what the standard was going to be but it’s hard cricket, there’s 120 overs in a day and I have never been used to that!

“The standard has surprised me a little bit and we have come across some ex-professionals as well, quite a few times.

“In comparison to second-team cricket, I would say it is on par or maybe just a bit higher these days.”

Naik, who has 28 wickets across all formats for Dorset so far this term, was denied the chance to lead the side in a t20 clash against Somerset on Tuesday, after the fixture at North Perrott was washed out.

Nevertheless, he has looked to call on his experience to assist some of the younger players in the county set-up during his short time with the club.

He added: “It’s really good to put in performances and contribute in that way but also to bring on the youngsters and have chats with them during the non-bowling days.

“I think it’s a great place as a youngster to start. It not only gives you a bit of experience but a taste of how second-team cricket will work.”