DORSET & Wilts head coach Martin Hill is hoping for a big improvement on his side's 2004 campaign as the County Championship gets under way this weekend.

The Twin Counties travel to Southampton to take on Hampshire tomorrow (3pm) in the new-look County Plate competition, having not managed a win last year.

Hill said: "We know we are the minnows of this tournament but without having any senior clubs in Dorset & Wilts it is understandable.

"The highest level of player we will have available will be from level 7.

"That obviously makes it difficult for us to compete, but hopefully, with the new structure, there will not be such a big gulf between sides in terms of ability this season."

Dorset & Wilts prepared with a victory against the Royal Navy and by reviving the old Dorset versus Wiltshire fixture

For the first time Hayden Hokianaga from Oakmeadians will lead the side, with Salisbury's Dave Bell acting as vice-captain.

Dorset & Wilts squad: James Baker (Wimborne), Robert Elford (Swanage & Wareham), Russel Tinsdale (Wimborne), George Leyland (Wimborne ), Dave Burgess (Swanage & Wareham), James Gaiger (Devizes), Matthew Morris (Wimborne), Hayden Hokianga (capt, Oakmeadians), Sam Hardcastle (Bournemouth) Dave Bell (Salisbury), Francois Van Schalkwyk (Oakmeadians), Joe Grove (Wimborne) David Parker (Cheltenham/Uni of Glos), Andy Gould (Swanage & Wareham), Tom Herbert (Salisbury). Subs: Gareth Blackborow (Salisbury), Robin Smith (Wootton Bassett), Liam Gilbert (Salisbury), Stuart Ramsey (Oakmeadians), Matt Wells (Wimborne), Robin Havill (Weston-super-Mare) Jerry Cook (Oakmeadians).

WEEKEND FIXTURES

Powergen South West Division

South West Play-offs: Chippenham v Coney Hill, Frome v Henley Wanderers, Honiton v Saltash, St Ives (South West) v Thornbury, Tor v Avonmouth Old Boys.