Hants want President Richards

Barry Richards at Hampshire

Hampshire will propose their former South African opening batsman Barry Richards as President at a meeting of their cricket members on April 23 2007.

Richards, who is the only candidate, would serve as President for a two-year period despite being based in Australia.

He is planning his first visit as President in May and will make regular trips to Hampshire when his busy schedule allows.

Richards played for Hampshire for a decade between the years of 1968 and 1978 and formed a powerful opening partnership with West Indian batsman Gordon Greenidge.

During his career Richards scored 28 358 first-class runs, at an average of 54.7, including 80 centuries and he also represented his country on four occasions

The position of President of Hampshire Cricket has been vacant since the untimely death of Colin Ingleby-Mackenzie last March.

Richards said: “I would be happy to fulfil any role that fits in with the needs of the club and it would be an honour to be President.

“I am very flattered to have been asked.”

Hampshire cricket chairman Rod Bransgrove added: “Barry is one of the great legends of Hampshire Cricket who has taken a keen interest in our development in recent years.

“He would undoubtedly inspire and motivate us all whilst providing experience and thoughtful advice.”