Top-order back for Devon test

8:45am Saturday 5th July 2008

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TOP end batsmen Glyn Treagus and Steve Selwood return for Dorset as they host arch-rivals Devon at Dean Park tomorrow (11am).

They both missed Sean Walbridge's side's comprehensive ten-wicket win over Herefordshire at Brockhampton last month.

But their greater experience means they get the nod in front of youngsters Chris Jones and Ziggy Arshad ahead of Devon's visit for a three-day Minor Counties Championship clash.

Dorset manager Walbridge said: "In all honesty, Chris and Ziggy have been a little bit unlucky, but we've gone for the experience of bringing back Glyn and Steve.

"We're pleased to have them back available again. It's that little bit of quality we are looking for.

"Their experience in the top and middle of our batting order makes us a little bit stronger.

"When you are playing a side like Devon, who always put out a strong side, we felt we needed that. Their proven record at this level will be important to us."

Pace bowlers Matt Metcalfe and Rupes Kitzinger are both unavailable after lining up against Herefordshire, so Dorset have brought Weybridge's Henry Turner into their 12-man squad.

Dorchester's Dan Belt could also return to championship action after more than a year on the sidelines.

Walbridge, whose side are fourth in the Western Division table, said: "Henry comes recommended by our captain Tom Hicks.

"He's played against him this year in the Surrey Championship and Henry is an opening bowler.

"It's good to have Dan fit and available now and we're hoping he can transfer some of his great form for Dorchester to Dorset."

Walbridge added: "Our win at Herefordshire has really given us a big boost and a lot of confidence. It was a really good team performance and we have to build on it.

"It'll be a tough game against Devon. They are quality opposition, but we have no reason to fear them.

"We have to go into the game with the same drive, determination and attitude we put in against Herefordshire and if we do that we will give ourselves every chance of winning."

Dorset: (from) Treagus (Bashley), N Park (Bournemouth), Cowley (Bournemouth), Selwood (Finchley), Lawes (Weymouth), C Park (Northampton Saints), T Hicks (Farnham), Belt (Dorchester), Waller (Bashley), Ford (Poole Ogs), Banham (Finchley), Turner (Weybridge).