Ross steps up to head coach post

and developing the everexpanding youth section.”

Ross said: “It’s a great challenge for me and it’s come at a really good time.

“I really enjoy coaching and it’s a great opportunity.

“I do a lot of schools coaching, which has dropped off a little, so have a bit of extra time to dedicate to Dorchester and I’m really looking forward to working with the players there.”

Ross will continue to play for Beaminster, where he has been a driving force on and off the pitch for many years and does not see any potential for divided loyalty. Ross said: “There certainly won’t be any conflict of interests to worry about in the short term. Dorchester Firsts will be competing in the Premier Division with the Second team aiming to be competitive in Division Three. Beaminster First XI will be looking to consolidate in Division One, so none of these teams will be playing each other.”

One key aim of Ross’s appointment is to wrest the Premier title back in 2023. Having won three consecutive titles, the Firsts finished in third behind Poole and Wimborne in a tight title race, and Ross is hopeful of bringing it back to West Dorset. He said: “It has to be the aim. They were just pipped at the post last year and will want to get the trophy back this season. It’s looking really strong for West Dorset with a lot of representation in the top two divisions and it would be great to reclaim the crown for the West.

“I will be organising and structuring the training nights, so that the pressure isn’t all on the skippers. As well as leading the training for the senior men’s teams, I’ll be involved with some of the youngsters and the ladies teams too. I just want to help out as much as I can, and take some of the pressure off the captains and coaches.

“With the ladies, they have a good core of players and really enjoy it. We’d like to get more fixtures and grow. “They’re doing really well and it’s my job to help improve their skills.”

Ross added: “I certainly don’t feel ready to hang up my boots just yet and am looking forward to playing back in Division One this year. I’ll take it year by year but as long as my body feels up to it, I’ll want to carry on playing.

“When the world’s current best bowler (Jimmy Anderson) is a 40 year-old, age really is just a number.”