SKIPPER Simon Watkins is planning a policy of all out attack as Bournemouth look to maintain their impressive start in defence of their Southern Premier League crown.
Watkins, in his first month at the helm, presided over three wins and one defeat as Bournemouth ended the first round of limited-overs matches in second place.
The Lions will be looking to make a fast start when the competition switches to timed games tomorrow, with Bournemouth hosting Hampshire Academy at Chapel Gate (11.30am).
Discussing the different formats, Watkins, who joined Bournemouth from the Academy, said: “I don’t anticipate any changes in the batting order because we are very adaptable. You do have to take into consideration stamina when it comes to bowling because people can bowl up to 30 overs.
“There isn’t a huge change, especially if you are fielding second because it is only an extra six overs. Tactically, you have got to set more attacking fields and it is more about the mentality of trying to get people out rather than trying to contain runs.
“I have always been a fan of the 50-overs game. In the timed format, some teams can be happy to play out draws because that is how they can pick up points during the season. We will be looking to attack and bowl out sides as cheaply as possible.
“There are different skill sets in the timed game. As a batsman, there is more emphasis on concentration, while the bowlers need to work in partnerships to take wickets.”
Watkins added: “It is an open league and I am very happy with our start. I think we have always been in with a shout of winning it and consistency will be the key come the end of the season.”
Tom Wainwright returns behind the stumps as Bournemouth make one change from their 20-run win over title rivals South Wilts six days ago.
Bournemouth: Watkins, N Park, Evans, J Park, House, Butler, S Ridley, Metcalfe, Denham, Wainwright, Staniford.
• Leaders Bashley are likely to face a stern test of their championship credentials when they host fourth-placed Totton & Eling at the BCG (11.30pm).
And Lymington, who failed to win a timed game last season, will be hoping for better fortunes when they entertain Alton at the Sports Ground (11.30am).
Holders Bashley have been handed a home tie against Hursley Park in the second round of the Southern Electric T20 Cup, while Lymington’s reward for their win over Fareham & Crofton is a home clash with Fawley. Bashley play on June 12, Lymington a week later.
Bashley: Neal, Sexton, Thurgood, Baker, Morris, Friedman, Maher, S Lilley, R Grierson, Nash, J Lilley.
Lymington: Pain, Shirazi, Treagus, Cowley, Lammiman, Freeman, Khan, Darbyshire, Elliott, Thacker, Beetham.
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