Devon Cricket Board - Thompson set for Unicorns bow

Thompson set for Unicorns bow

DEVON'S Matt Thompson has been included in the Unicorns A side for tomorrow's (Thursday) Second Eleven Trophy game against Leicestershire IIs as Luton.

Thompson, who plays for Torquay, got the call during Devon's rain-ruined game against Cornwall at St Austell earlier this week, in which he was 77 not out when play was abandoned at lunch on the third and final day.

The Unicorns is an initiative by the ECB to expose the best players from recreational cricket to the professional game. The 1st XI plays in the CB Pro40 competition against the First Class counties.

ECB hope selection for the Unicorns will lead to players being talent spotted by the First Class counties.

Thompson topped Devon's batting averages last season and has been the man in form so far during a wet season.

Roger Newman, Devon CCC's director of cricket, said he was delighted but not surprised Thompson had been selected for the Unicorns.

"You don't have to be a professional to play in a professional way, but that is how Matt approaches the game," said Newman.

"Matt always produces the goods when it matters, such as the game against Wiltshire two weeks ago, the one at St Austell, last season's Championship final – and I could go on.

"He is self-disciplined almost to the point of selfishness when he bats. That is not a bad thing. It shows how focussed he is.

"I am convinced that had Matt been born in a First Class county he would be on their books by now. There is still time for someone to come in, if he wants to go down that route."

DCB Ltd, University of Exeter Sports Hall, Stocker Road, Exeter, Devon EX4 4QN Company Registration Number: 7024773