DORCHESTER rugby coach Martin Oxland believes increased availability has helped his side gain their second promotion in three years.

Oxland has orchestrated the county town side’s second Wadworth Dorset & Wilts One South title since 2018, sandwiching relegation from the Southern Counties South.

During the 2019/20 season, Dorchester compiled a perfect league record of 17 wins from 17 games, finishing 11 points above rivals Weymouth & Portland in second.

Last week, the RFU confirmed Dorchester as league champions, although their promotion fate is yet to be decided.

Other accolades have also come in the shape of being named Rugby World magazine’s team of the month in February.

Speaking to the publication, Oxland admitted continuity of selection had hugely benefitted the Surcouf Park outfit.

“That’s something I targeted, trying to get the players to buy into continuity in selection and availability,” he said.

“We’ve probably used 35 players this year and 25 of those have played 80 per cent of the games. It’s helped the side, especially in some of the closer games.”

Oxland also praised his prize players for their roles this season, naming the likes of captain and number eight James Newsam, plus marauding centre Callum King.

“Their matchday leadership has been excellent,” Oxland remarked.

“The back row of Newsam, Charlie Sharpe and Josh Hosford, and centres King and James Baker, are the key units.

“That’s not to undersell the work of the other players. I just think those units have given the others the chance to play the rugby that we have.”