Wednesday, April 4, 2012

Hampshire looking to get out of Division Two


Hampshire were relegated to LV County Championship Division Two and will battle despite having one of the smallest budgets in professional cricket, but manager Giles White is confident he can wheel-and-deal to bring success.

The county has a tiny squad compared to some of its Championship rivals – just 17 players registered to date for the 2012 season – and they have missed out financially by not being named as an Ashes venue during the last series or for the next two in England.

White told BBC Radio Solent the team find themselves “in difficulty” when it comes to finances so he hopes the loan system can pay dividends and they can gather a good enough squad to compete for promotion out of LV County Championship Division Two.


He admits all counties have been hit by “financial constraints” given the overall economic downturn and there will be a number of rivals also chasing potential loan targets. But he remains confident there is enough talent at Hampshire to set them on the right path to recovery.


"We've got a slightly different set up this year and in many ways it is more exciting. We've got a good developing, young side that can stay together for the next five years,” said Mr White.

"There is good quality there, also there is a loan system out there that counties are using more regularly."

Hampshire have been out in Barbados during pre-season and new captain Jimmy Adams has been delighted with what he has seen from his team. He admits the squad are “over the moon” with their progress and he hopes to see that potential come to fruition in their opening County Championship games.

Those looking to take part in gamble with Betfair should note the development of this story and its impact on the England cricket team.

No comments: