BRAD Dial believes Lechlade should embrace their underdog status this season as they negotiate their inaugural campaign in Premier One.

The 2014 U19 World Cup winner feels that the Manor Ground side should be playing free from fear and use the freedom to express themselves in the middle – starting tomorrow with a visit from Frocester.

The 22-year-old, who has now settled in the UK after turning his back on a first-class cricket career back in his native South Africa, has been enjoying the challenge that now faces Lechlade each week.

“Considering the results that we have had this season, it has been pretty enjoyable,” Dial said.

“We have struggled with injuries and player availabilities so it is never easy to put out a consistent side but we have played some good cricket.

“There is not much expectation on us so we have to try and go out there and play with the freedom that comes with that.

“If we can play with no fear then maybe we can upset a few of the bigger teams.

“We have got Frocester this weekend and if we can produce a performance like we did when we beat Downend (who were top of the table at the time) a couple of weeks ago then we could have a good day.”

This season is Dial’s fourth with the Manor Ground club after joining them on the back of winning the U19 World Cup with South Africa in 2014.

However, this year, Dial opted to stay in the UK over the winter instead of returning home.

“I have decided to stay here,” the South African said. “I’m working for a cricket coaching company called Gecko.

“It has been really good for me and the people I work and live with had made the move over here easy.

“The club themselves have also been like a family away from my family back home.”