BEN Bridgen and Chris Park combined to fire Bournemouth to a handsome opening-day win – with captain Martin Miller the most relieved man at Chapel Gate.

Miller had been dismissed for three and was quickly followed by Henry Bartlett to leave Bournemouth on 12 for two in their Southern Premier League Division One opener against Old Tauntonians & Romsey.

But opener Bridgen (74) and Dorset captain Park (59) put on 119 for the third wicket to help guide the hosts to 220 for seven, enough for an 83-run triumph.

Miller told the Daily Echo: “When you tell the team one thing and you do another it is not great.

“They bowled well up front but Ben and Chris knuckled down and rebuilt our innings brilliantly. It gave us a platform and other than the captain letting down the side at the top of the order, it was a really good batting performance.”

The visitors seldom threatened a credible response thanks to the efficiency of Jem Warner (3-39) before Dom Clutterbuck (4-7) swept aside the tailenders for 137 all out.

“Dom is quite a talent,” added Miller. “He was not chuffed with being sixth on and I think my biggest problem this year will be having to pick from four very talented spinners.”