Ex-Hampshire off-spinner Richard Dibden plans to put a long-term shoulder injury behind him and make his BAT comeback against United Services at Southern Gardens tomorrow (1pm).

Dibden, 31, who was on the Hampshire staff from 1995-96, missed the whole of last season after undergoing surgery.

But he hopes to transfer his encouraging net practice bowling to middle action against one of Premier 3's fancied sides tomorrow.

BAT II, promoted as runners-up in Hampshire League Division 2 last season, include several Southampton University students in their line up.

Relegated Calmore Sports face a tough Loperwood Park opener against Tichborne Park, who celebrated a eight-wicket opening day win against Fair Oak, having survived the drop last summer.

Fair Oak face a demanding visit to Portsmouth II, while local bragging rights will be at stake when Sparsholt host Easton & Martyr Worthy at the Norman Edwards Ground.

With Paul Jenkins returning and Rick Ankers available, Burridge are at full strength at Hartley Wintney, who piled up 235-8 in beating Andover II last week.

Fledgling left-arm spin bowler Danny Briggs gets an early opportunity to display his talents when Ventnor make a delayed start to their Southern Electric Premier League, Division 2 defence tomorrow.

The West of England Under-15 prospect will make his SPL debut against Havant 2nd XI at Steephill.

"It's an ideal opportunity for Danny to play. He's a very promising young player and he's certainly got the talent to succeed," said Ventnor skipper Mark Whyte.

Ventnor were due to have launched their bid for a third successive championship last week, but made a fruitless visit to Hungerford in the rain.

Newly-promoted Purbrook face an intriguing test at Rowledge, while the Miller brothers line up against their one-time Old Tauntoni-ans & Romsey teammates at Andover.

Trojans, whose opener at St Cross Symondians was abandoned last week, are bolstered by the return of Paul Douglas against Hungerford at Stoneham Lane.

St Cross visit Lymington, who weren't in the best shape after Pur-brook had posted 218-5 in 43 overs before the rains came last week.

Eastleigh & Otter-bourne begin their Hampshire League title defence at St Cross II, while Locks Heath host Hursley Park and South Wilts II entertain newly-promoted Portchester.