Hampshire have secured the services of in-demand fast-bowler David Balcombe until the end of the 2014 season.

The 26 year-old had been struggling for a first-team place at The Rose Bowl, partly due to injury, but an end-of-season loan spell with Kent appears to have reinvigorated his career. He took 40 wickets during his two-month sojourn at the St Lawrence Ground and was so successful that Kent were understood to be interested in signing him on a permanent basis.

However, Hampshire moved fast and began talks with the former Durham University student before the season had finished – talks which ultimately appear to have been successful.

Hampshire’s manager, Giles White, said of the news, “David’s signature is an important one for the club as he adds to a growing nucleus of players that are likely to form the core of the team for a few years to come. His recent development has been encouraging; he possesses a good work ethic, and has all the credentials to be a match winner. He’s an integral part of the squad.”

Balcombe himself paid tribute to his time at Kent, saying, “Last season I went on loan to Kent for the final two months of the season and it really gave me a fantastic opportunity to show my capabilities in county cricket and kick-start my career.”

Picture supplied by Sarah Ansell