Tomlinson and Benham awarded Hampshire summer contracts

South Wilts left-arm pace bowler James Tomlinson and promising batsman Chris Benham, from Cove, have been signed by Hampshire on a summer contract basis in 2002.

The pair, who have graduated through the county's colts network, will link up with their Hampshire team-mates after completing the first year of their respective university studies.

Tomlinson, 20, played an integral role in Hampshire's Second XI Championship triumph this summer, taking 14 wickets.

Farnborough-based Benham, 19, a past Hampshire Academy graduate, has been a prominent run scorer in the various Young Cricketer sides in recent seasons.

Besides playing regular 2nd XI cricket, Benham and Tomlinson are expected to be among the young players Middleton will include in the county's Development XI in the SouthernElectric Premier League next season.

"These lads are very talented players and have to potential to progress if they continue to work hard at their game," said Hampshire 2nd XI coach Tony Middleton.

"They are both 'home grown' and underlines again how the development work at both county and club level is flourishing."