Hampshire will begin their quest for their first LV County Championship crown since 1973 knowing there will be increasing rewards for positive and aggressive cricket next season.

The ECB have subtly tweaked the competition in an effort to encourage more results by awarding teams sixteen points for a win and just three for a draw (in comparison with fourteen for a victory and  four for a stalemate in previous years). 

Bonus points remain unchanged with five batting and three bowling points available during each side’s first innings; however these must be achieved within 110 overs as opposed to the 120 allowed in 2009. In a bid to promote and maintain the preparation of good wickets the use of the heavy roller will be banned once a match has commenced. As with last year, just one overseas player will be permitted in the starting XI.

There is every reason for Hampshire fans to be optimistic about the upcoming campaign; the bowling attack has been significantly strengthened with the exciting signings of Simon Jones and Sri Lankan superstar Ajantha Mendis. This allied to a powerful batting line-up which includes the ever-dependable Nic Pothas and the ever-improving Michael Carberry means Gilles White’s men look well equipped to mount a serious challenge for the Championship.

An opening fixture away at newly promoted Essex gives Hampshire a great opportunity for early momentum to take into the acid test of their title credentials, when they face defending champions Durham at The Riverside, starting on April 21st. The season comes to a close at home to Warwickshire in mid September.
 
 

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