DORCHESTER 93-0 beat SHILLINGSTONE 89 all out by 10 wickets

DORCHESTER captain Simon Mitchem hailed his side’s “perfect start” to the season after they dismantled Shillingstone by 10 wickets yesterday.

James Dunham ripped through the top order on his way to figures of 5-35 as the home side were skittled out for just 88 from 29.4 overs.

In reply, Dan Belt smashed 68 to ease the visitors home having lost no wickets with 16 overs remaining.

He said: “I’m very pleased, it was a comprehensive victory.

“I said before the game that we had to go there and do the job and we did exactly that.

“I am really pleased with the bowlers. James (Dunham) bowled straight through and was fantastic.

“Josh (Richardson) bowled two great spells to take three wickets as well.

“It was a perfect day. They came out and tried to have a bit of a go at it. But we bowled well and took our catches. You can’t ask much more than that.”

Having lost the toss and asked to bowl, Dorchester’s bowlers dominated the Shillingstone batting order.

Dunham took two wickets in his first over to send a shockwave through the home dressing room and he along with Richardson (3-18) made light work of the top order.

Only three of the home side’s batting line-up got into double figures as they were all removed for 88.

Along with the two opening bowlers, Dan Floyd and Jack Walklett also chipped in with a wicket apiece.

With a measly target to chase Belt came out and attacked for the visitors.

He struck 11 fours and one six in his 68 as he carried his side home. Down the other end wicketkeeper-batsman Nick Roe – who took three catches in the first innings – hit a measured 15 not out as the visitors waltzed to the victory.

Dorchester have picked up 39 points from a possible 40 from their opening two games of the season and Mitchem could not have asked for anything better.

“To get 39 points from the first two games is really important,” explained the captain. “We play Poole, Sherborne and Wimborne next so it’s great to have them on the board.

“I was so impressed with all of the players, Dan (Belt) was brilliant and the place is buzzing at the moment. We’re all really looking forward to this week and there is a good vibe about the place.

“Everyone is in a really good place at the moment and we can’t wait to go again.”