Smith out of Hampshire squad for Middlesex

Hampshire captain Robin Smith is the only noticeable absentee from the Hawks 12 that travels to Lord's for the Norwich Union League Division Two clash with Middlesex Crusaders on Bank Holiday Tuesday.

He has an Achilles heal problem which has been concerning him for some time, and has decided to rest it rather than put it through the exertions of a one-day match. Will Kendall will lead the side in his absence.

James Hamblin is recalled and will resume his pinch-hitting role at the top of the innings, while the eleventh place is likely to be between Laurie Prittipaul and Chris Tremlett, depending on the surface at cricket's HQ.

Hampshire Hawks squad: Neil Johnson, James Hamblin, Derek Kenway, John Crawley, Giles White, Will Kendall (capt), Nic Pothas (w-k), Dimitri Mascarenhas, Shaun Udal, Lawrence Prittipaul, Chris Tremlett, Alan Mullally.