BEAMINSTER all-rounder Ross Baker has been named as Dorchester Cricket Club’s new head coach for the upcoming 2023 season.

Baker, an ECB Level 2 coach, replaces Sean Fitzgerald but will continue to play and coach at Beaminster, who last year won the County Division Two title on a dramatic final day.

Also set to help out with Dorchester youth and ladies sections, Baker’s addition will not hinder his work as a full-time coach.

Discussing his new role at Dorchester, winners of three Dorset Premier League crowns in four years, Baker told the Bridport News: “I’m really looking forward to getting started this summer.

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“They’ve had a lot of success on and off the field in the last few years, so I’m looking forward to being a part of that and helping any way I can.

“The only thing I was concerned about was that it would clash with my roles at Beaminster, but fortunately they don’t clash at all.

“I can continue to do both, I’m grateful to be given the opportunity by Mark Derrien (Dorchester chairman). I’ll continue to help Beaminster in any way I can.

“It’s a different role for me professionally because I’m already coaching full-time.”

Asked how he would look to improve a high-quality Dorchester squad, Baker said: “They have outstanding players.

“My role will be to structure the training sessions and make sure the pressure is taken off the captains as well.

“And, make sure the training sessions are planned and well organised, with a look back at the previous Saturday and towards the next game with a plan to win that.

“My main focus will be on the senior team but I will be available to help out on Friday night with the youth and ladies training.”

Former Dorchester skipper James Dunham, who recruited Baker, said: “I was impressed with his vision and professional approach.

“He’s inclusive in his planning and has a commitment to challenging the stronger players and getting them to improve whilst also teaching the basics of sound technique, bringing a professional and focused mindset to training sessions.”  

Baker will also put on individual or group sessions upon request and is set to take his first indoor session with Dorchester’s squad on Sunday at St Osmund’s (2pm).

However, Baker is yet to have further discussions over a possible involvement in selection meetings at Dorchester.

Jon Legg’s men begin their Wessex Internet Dorset Premier League season at Christchurch on Saturday, April 29.