Mascarenhas earns benefit

Dimitri Mascarenhas thanked his team-mates and the club for the honour © Getty Images

Dimitri Mascarenhas has been awarded a benefit year by Hampshire in 2007.

The club have recognised the popular
all-rounder’s services since making a sensational debut in 1996.

He took 6-88 against Glamorgan en route to match figures of 9-150, and remains one of the key members of a Hampshire side in all forms of the game.

“It is a great honour,” said Mascarenhas. “I'm very excited about it and looking forward to a great year on and off the field.

“I feel very lucky. I never thought that I would be in this position.

“A huge thank-you must be expressed to all at the club, especially to all my team-mates and the members' committee who have awarded me this benefit.”

Team manager Paul Terry added: “I am delighted for Dimi to receive his benefit year.

“I feel it is well deserved in recognition of his enthusiastic contribution to Hampshire.

“In view of Dimi's popularity in Hampshire, I'm sure it will be a very successful year.”