Monday 29 September 2014 13:19, UK
Hampshire fast bowler David Balcombe has joined Surrey on a two-year contract.
And two more players are leaving the Ageas Bowl - wicketkeeper Michael Bates and fast bowler Ruel Braithwaite have both been released.
Balcombe made his debut in 2008 and was the leading wicket-taker in the County Championship in 2012. He has however fallen out of favour and played just four Division Two matches this season.
Balcombe said: “It was a tough decision to make, but I think it’s in the best interests of my career to start a fresh chapter elsewhere. I will always hold fond memories of the club who gave me my first chance in the professional game and I’ll always be proud to have played for Hampshire.”
Bates’ future was always in doubt once Hampshire signed Adam Wheater from Essex ahead of the 2013 season.
Bates is rated as one of the best glovemen in the country but Wheater’s superior batting sees him picked when fit.
Bates made his debut in 2010 and took 136 catches in 46 first-class matches.
Braithwaite, the former Durham quick, arrived last winter but did not play a single game in any format in 2014.
Hampshire’s director of cricket Giles White said: "It is always sad to part company with players at this time of the year
Meanwhile, spinner Brad Taylor, 17, and fast bowler Basil Akram, 21, have signed development contracts with the club.
Last year Taylor became the youngest Hampshire player to appear in the first team since 1867.
