Balcombe remains with Hampshire

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Seamer David Balcombe took 33 wickets in five championship games, including two five-wicket and two six-wicket hauls, while on loan at Kent

Seamer David Balcombe has signed a new contract with Hampshire until 2014 following an outstanding loan spell with Kent this summer.

Balcombe, who is 27 on Christmas Eve, took a stunning 40 wickets in nine games for Kent in all competitions, having joined on loan in early July.

His exploits were principally in the LV= County Championship where he claimed 33 wickets in five matches, including two five-wicket and two six-wicket hauls, at an average of 17.81.

Four of his six Clydesdale Bank 40 scalps for the Spitfires came via figures of 4-38 in victory over Worcestershire at New Road.

Although he did not make a senior appearance for Hampshire this year, partly due to injury at the start of the season, Balcombe, whose previous deal expired this month, has earned a fresh one.

“It’s brilliant,” he said of the new contract. “Obviously, last season I went on loan to Kent for the final two months of the season and it really gave me a fantastic opportunity to show my capabilities in county cricket and kick-start my career.

“To make this commitment to Hampshire for the next three years is absolutely fantastic, the way the squad is evolving. It’s a young squad, full of talent and I think we’re going to be doing good things this year.”

Hampshire manager Giles White added: “David's signature is an important one for the club as he adds to a growing nucleus of players that are likely to form the core of the team for a few years to come.

“His recent development has been encouraging; he possesses a good work ethic and has all the credentials to be a match-winner. He's an integral part of the squad.”

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