Bates slates new Hampshire deal

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Hampshire have secured the services of first-choice wicketkeeper Michael Bates, who was out of contract, for the next two seasons.

The 22-year-old has established himself behind the stumps in all three formats, this year aiding the Royals’ Clydesdale Bank 40 and Friends Life t20 double.

Although Hampshire remain in Division Two of the LV= County Championship, it was an encouraging campaign for Bates whose 52 competition dismissals gave him the joint most in both divisions. The diminutive right-handed batsman also scored his maiden first-class century - versus Yorkshire at Headingley Carnegie in May.

Michael Bates, who has signed a new two-year deal, has made himself Hampshire's first-choice wicketkeeper in all three formats

Bates said: “I am delighted to have been offered a further two years at Hampshire. It’s a brilliant place to play cricket and I’m thoroughly looking forward to being part of an exciting future.”

Hampshire manager Giles White said: “Michael has a great attitude and has made good progress over the last couple of years. Hopefully this provides the platform that allows him to continue this progress and achieve the all-round contributions that we think he is capable of.”

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