Sam Northeast signed by Hampshire for the 2018 season

Hampshire have signed up batsman Sam Northeast from Kent on a four-year deal, confirmed the team on Monday. Several other teams were also known to be interested in securing his services but the war was eventually nailed by Hampshire. For the past 10 years, Northeast played for Kent but reports of his fall out with head coach Matt Walker last season – and as a result, he was sacked as the captain, all this ensured he did not extend his contract with the club.

A prolific batsman in county championship

Northeast is regarded as one of the best batsmen in the county games. He has been a consistent performer for Kent, and his captaincy in the last three seasons too didn’t affect his personal performances, as he amassed over 1000 runs in each of the last three seasons. Hampshire being one of the top clubs, a few good performances from Northeast can land him his maiden call-up to England‘s Test team.

On moving to a new club, Northeast called his decade-long association with Kent as a memorable one, adding that the opportunity to captain the side was a big honour for him. He also expressed his excitement over joining Hampshire, which can help him fulfil his dream of donning the national jersey.

Excited to join Hampshire

“I have had a really enjoyable 10 years at Kent and I would like to wish the club and its supporters the best of luck for the future. It was an honour to be the Club Captain for three years and I leave the club with many happy memories,” the batsman was quoted as saying by cricbuzz.com.

“At the same time, I am hugely excited about joining Hampshire. It is a club and a team with a very bright future, and I am really looking forward to making as big a contribution as possible towards the club’s success. I hope this move will also help me push on to fulfill my dream of playing for England,” he added.