Hampshire's Tom Alsop has signed a development contract for the next two seasons.

The wicketkeeper-batsman starred as a substitute in a YB40 match against Lancashire last season and hit 150 against Surrey II last week.

Alsop, 18, is one of several talented young wicketkeepers including Adam Wheater, Lewis McManus and Michael Bates.

He said: “My aim at the start of the year was to earn myself a professional contract by the end of the season, so the fact I’ve done it in April is a great feeling.

"The club has shown a lot of faith in me by offering me a two-year contract so hopefully I can continue to impress and have a good season.”

“Playing a key role in the Hampshire Second XI, averaging around 40, is what I’m aiming for now thisseason.

"My recent hundred against Surrey has given me a lot of confidence to hopefully try and push for a spot in the first team.” Hampshire Director of Cricket, Giles White said: “Tom is a real talent and his early-season form has showed that he has the potential to play a big part in Hampshire’s future.

"This is just the start for Tom, and hopefully he can keep working hard to make sure he fulfils his potential.”