NEW backers have signed a three-year deal for title sponsorship of the Dorset Cricket League from 2023, league officials have announced.

Wessex Internet, one of the county’s fastest-growing companies, have succeeded Dorset Funeral Plan as main sponsors.

It means the league will become known as the Wessex Internet Dorset Cricket League, with sponsorship extending to the county’s two official T20 competitions.

The DCL’s representative XI and Women’s League will also be covered by the deal, which will help to reduce costs for clubs plus both train and encourage new umpires among other scopes.

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DCL chairman, Peter Constable, said: “We are delighted to be forging a partnership with Wessex Internet, particularly at a time when more and more digital technology is coming into the game at grassroots level.

“Some clubs already use a phone app or laptop for scoring matches, some of which can be followed live online from all over the world.

“It’s also possible for clubs to stream matches live over the internet and we may even see some of the other technology used in the professional game filter down to club cricket in the not-too-distant future.

“Wessex Internet, by bringing fibre connections to rural areas of Dorset, are the ideal company to be at the forefront with at this time and we look forward to working with them over the next three years.”

Hector Gibson Fleming, CEO of Wessex Internet, said: “We’re excited to enter this three-year agreement to sponsor the Dorset Cricket League.

“A local internet service provider, we work closely with local communities across Dorset to connect them to ultrafast full-fibre broadband.

“We recognise the vital role that local sports clubs play in community life and are delighted to be able support cricket clubs across the county.

“We're excited, through this partnership, to deliver further benefits for communities and cricket in Dorset.”

Wessex Internet is an independent internet service provider whose aim is to connect the most remote countryside communities with a full-fibre network.