SWANAGE V BEAMINSTER

BEAMINSTER welcome back influential all-rounder Simon Jones for their trip to Swanage in Dorset Funeral Plan League Division One tomorrow (2pm).

The former skipper was sorely missed as Richard Bugler's side slipped to defeat at the hands of Dorchester last weekend.

But his seam bowling and middle order batting will add strength to the side as they aim to get off the mark with their first victory of the summer.

"We are back to full strength really," said Bugler. "We have got a squad of 12 to choose from, which will include Simon coming back in.

"It will be good to have Simon back. Joe Hawkins is going to play for the Seconds but Julian Davies is available as well.

"Fred Etherington is still injured, he has pulled a leg muscle, but we have got a good 12 to pick from."

Jones conceded runs at a miserly rate of 3.13 per over last season and that kind of economy will be vital if they are to prevent the Swanage batsmen making hay on their small Days Park ground.

Australian all-rounder Grant Vink and medium pacer Murray Legg will also have a huge part to play against the likes of Dave Dyer, who looked dangerous with the bat against Bridport last weekend.

"Our Aussie had a really good game last Saturday," added the Beaminster skipper. "He got 51 and bowled his 10 overs for just 20 runs.

"Murray Legg struggled a bit in his first three overs but bowled his last seven for about 25 runs. I think those two will do well for us this year and having Jonesy back is a big bonus."

In the corresponding fixture last season Beaminster were inserted on a damp wicket and skittled for just 119. Davies top scored with 40 before Swanage knocked the target off in 22 overs for the loss of two wickets.

With the weather likely to play a part again this weekend Bugler will be hoping lightning doesn't strike twice.

Beaminster: Bugler, Baker, Jones, Vink, Freke, Park, Davies, Hurford, Runyard, Hutchings, Hansford, Legg