DORSET CCC will host a double header of T20 matches against illustrious rivals Hampshire in the build-up to their renamed Unicorns County Championship season.

The Dean Park clashes on Thursday, May 8, will see Hampshire give their entire squad match practice ahead of their domestic T20 campaign as well as marking their 150th anniversary on the ground where they won the County Championship in 1973.

Dorset, who recently appointed Chris Park as their new captain, begin their pre-season preparations against Hampshire II at the Ageas Bowl on Sunday, April 13 before taking on Wiltshire at South Wilts eight days later.

They then play a Dorset League representative XI at Wimborne on Sunday, April 27, one week before their season starts at home to Wales in the Unicorns One Day Trophy.

After Hampshire make their midweek visit, Dorset will continue their cup quest against Devon (away), Wiltshire (home) and Cornwall (away) prior to the start of the league season on Sunday, June 8, with a three-day home match against Devon.

The Minor Counties Cricket Association (MCCA) have rebranded their competitions to bring them in line with the Unicorns side that play in the First Class Domestic 50-over competition.

Meanwhile, the county’s A side, has been renamed Dorset Leopards and will be managed and coached by Phil Calcott and Julian Shackleton respectively.