ANDOVER all-rounder David Taylor’s magnificent start to the season was rewarded this week after he received the Southern Electric Premier Division 1 Cricketer of the Month award for May.

The former county star, who has previously played for the likes of Derbyshire and Oxfordshire, has already hit 596 runs this season while also being prolific with the ball, taking nine wickets in the opening eight games.

The 596 run haul includes three impressive centuries, with a season best 172 not out in Andover’s opening game against Liphook and Ripsley at the start of May.

The left-handed batsman also continued his good form despite Andover slumping to four consecutive defeats in May, including one against his former side Totton and Eling for whom he set a world record for the highest ever individual score in a 50 over recreational cricket match, with a total of 330 not out.

Taylor also hit an impressive 115 in a losing cause against leaders Hook & Newnham Basics before going on to score 105 at Bournemouth and 91 against Calmore Sports last weekend.

Talking about his star man, Andover 1st team captain, Matt Hooper, said: “DT is the kind of player all captains want in their side; he could bat anywhere, bowl at any time and is a gun fielder.

“He is a match-winner as he proved at Liphook with one of the best innings I've ever witnessed, single-handedly dragging us over the line.

“As a coach, he sets the standard high and challenges our players to improve.

“Dave's experience is our biggest asset because we have a young side and his contributions are vital to our success.

“He is an inspiration to our younger players who can see firsthand what can be achieved if they put their mind to it.”

Chairman, Philip Knight, added: “Dave has been with the club as a coach for a few years now but having him as a player is a real bonus as his performances this season have demonstrated.

“He is on target to smash the league records, not just in the Southern Premier League but across the country too.

“The players around him are obviously learning from the way he applies himself and this can only be good for the future of the club.”