CAPTAIN Luke Webb believes Dorset run-getter Alex Eckland has “matured” in the minor counties arena this season.

The talented batsman tops the Unicorns Championship run charts for the county, with 356 runs at an average of just less than 60.

Eckland is set to feature on his home ground at North Perrott when Dorset host Wales in a three-day encounter, starting on Sunday (11am).

Asked about the 20-year-old, Webb told the Daily Echo: “He has been fantastic this season. He has really matured as a minor counties cricketer.

“We have known how good he was since he started playing for us but the past year or so he has really kicked on.

“I think it’s just a case that he learned his game a bit more. He spent last winter in Australia and no doubt that has helped him progress.

“The challenge for him now is to keep backing that up.”

Dorset go into their fifth red-ball contest of the summer third in the Western Division - unbeaten with two wins and two draws.

Asked whether remaining undefeated in the longer format had now been the main task, Webb replied: “With two games left it has to be the aim now, regardless of the opposition.

“I think if we play our best cricket for six more days then there is absolutely no reason why we can’t.”

Dorset close their league campaign with a trip to league leaders Berkshire.