SKIPPER Martyn Richards has drafted in schoolboy Marcus Evans as Dorchester seek redemption against unbeaten Broadstone (1.30pm).

The county town side slipped to their first defeat of the season last week in a dismal show against lowly Ferndown Wayfarers.

And with top-order batsman Dave Maslen and pace bowler Phil Morley both unavailable for tomorrow’s Dorset Premier League encounter at the Rec, Richards has called on 14-year-old Evans and Dave Herbert to fill the void.

Despite his tender age, Dorchester’s captain is confident in Evans’ ability.

He said: “Marcus has joined this year from Abbotsbury as he wanted to step up in standard. He had a few options in terms of clubs to join so we’re really pleased he has joined us.

“He has been playing in the seconds this season and doing very well for them. He’s also been scoring for Dorset Under-15s, including a recent century, and the Thomas Hardye School team.

“We’re delighted to give him his first-team debut and I’m sure he’ll be a huge player for us in the next few years.

“If he keeps progressing the way he is then he’ll go on to bigger and better things.

“He’s only 14 but he’s a strong lad and a real athlete. He bowls as well but appears to be an accomplished batsman.

“We are keen to integrate him into the first team and we have the opportunity to do that this week.

“Dave comes back in after a big knock of 73 for the seconds in their win over Ferndown Seconds. He deserves his recall.”

Tomorrow’s visitors lie second in the table, two places above former leaders Dorchester.

Richards added: “Some of the bowling last week was terrific but when you concede so many extras (38) you’re going to harm yourself in close games, and there was no finer example than last week as we should have won that easily.

“Although it was an inept batting display, had we been more disciplined with the ball we would have only been chasing 70 or 80 instead of 105.

“Thankfully we have another game to look forward to and hopefully get back to winning ways.

“We know we have to up our game as Broadstone have had a good start to the season and it’ll be our toughest game since the first one against Stalbridge.”

Dorchester: Waite, Rendell, Belt, Little, Richard, Mead, Evans, Herbert