SIMON Mitchem insists that the Dorset selectors’ move to pick players from the Dorset Funeral Plan Premier Division offers a huge motivation for his side and the rest of the league.

And the Dorchester captain fully believes that a few of his charges could make the step up to represent the county.

Mitchem’s views come in light of the fact that both Martinstown skipper Ed Nichols and Wimborne & Colehill’s vice-captain Simon Woodruff were chosen to represent the Dorset Leopards – the county side’s development set-up – in their win over Devon Lions last Sunday.

The Dorchester all-rounder told Echosport: “I think it’s good that the Dorset Leopards are looking at guys in our league.

“Personally, I think there are quite a few players in the league around the top few teams who would be good enough.

“I think there are a few guys in our team who could make that step up and play at that level but it’s just getting the chance to do so. I hope they (the selectors) keep picking players from the Dorset League.”

He added: “It would be nice if some of our guys got picked, don’t get me wrong, but all we can do is put in the performances.

“I think most competitive guys say they want to play a good competitive level of cricket.

“To represent the county in any form would be a huge privilege.”

After being struck heavily by injuries and unavailability in their loss against Sherborne last weekend, Dorchester are expected to have a host of players back for their trip to high-flying Wimborne & Colehill tomorrow (1pm).

Mitchem, who is set to return, will also welcome back David Trotter and Josh Richardson, as well as a few others to the county town side.

“Last week was a tough week for everyone involved,” the captain added.

“It was always going to be a tough game against Sherborne with several key players missing but you can’t fault the effort of the guys that went out there.

“It’s an opportunity this weekend to put things right with a good performance against Wimborne.

“We will keep trying to win games and the aim is to finish as high as we can.

“There is still potential for us to finish in the top three, which is still a great season for us.”