Somerset have confirmed that they have made an offer to the unsettled Leicestershire batsman Iain Sutcliffe who topped 1000 runs in the 2002 championship season.

Chief executive Peter Anderson told me: "Sutcliffe is the type of player we need for sure, but we have to balance any offer we make to him against the budget that we have available, and the affect that has on the salary levels of our existing players. We have to live within our means."

He continued: "What Somerset are continually up against are the larger counties who can always throw money at a problem."

Meanwhile the county have also confirmed that they are interested in Tasmanian batsman Michael Dighton who has an English qualification and who is keen to come to England and play for Somerset.

Twenty six year old Dighton attended the Australian Academy in 1996, and initially played in Western Australia with club side Scarborough CC who are coached by Piran Holloway. In his twenty three first class matches the right handed batsman has scored 1373 runs at an average of just over 38, and is currently batting at number three in the Tasmanian state side that is captained by Jamie Cox.

The former Somerset skipper told me: "This player has done well on the Tasmanian scene and has scored three first class centuries. I am very impressed with him and he might be just what Somerset are looking for."

Coach Kevin Shine told me: "We are looking to strengthen the top order, and if we are unlucky with Sutcliffe, Dighton might well be the answer."

Mr Anderson added: "In the near future England are going to play in Hobart and whilst he is there Vic Marks, the Somerset cricket chairman can personally check up on Dighton for us."

© SOMERSET