NEW Dorset recruit Jigar Naik insists he is aiming to “make a difference” as the club’s professional during the upcoming season.

The former Leicestershire off-spinner is looking forward to the challenge which lies ahead for him in working with the county’s young talent.

Dorset skipper Chris Park said it would be "a massive bonus" to have the 32-year-old on board.

Naik, who is currently doing his level three coaching qualification, played in the Leicestershire side which won the English domestic T20 crown in 2011.

And having featured in that pressured environment, the experienced county cricketer is keen to make his mark on the Minor Counties structure this summer.

He told the Dorset Echo: “I enjoy pressure. I feel I usually play better with pressure on me.

“I am looking to bring stability to the middle order with the batting and will do a lot of bowling as well, alongside the likes of Thommo (Sam Thomson).

“I believe that if there is no pressure on any game, it makes you relax and take it too easy.

“I am looking to put in performances. It might not always happen but that’s part and parcel of the game.”

As well as aiming to star on the field, Naik, who has taken 170 wickets in 77 first-class matches, is hoping to be a mentor for the younger members of the Dorset set-up.

He added: “It’s something I am really looking forward to. There are a lot of youngsters there that need to be nurtured in some way or another.

“From looking at the results, the talent is there, it’s just the guidance on the field which is needed a little bit. I really feel I can help in that department.

“I had a few Minor Counties clubs interested but I wanted to go somewhere that I could make a difference, rather than just turn up and play.”

He continued: “The policy that Dorset have at the moment of playing mostly locals is something I’m a massive fan of, in bringing your own players through the county.

“That’s something I really enjoy and it’s something I want to promote.

“I am from outside Dorset but I want to work with the county’s youngsters and develop local players rather than having players from all over the country.”