Andrew Neal Signs Two-Year Deal With Hampshire
All-rounder Andrew Neal has signed on pro terms with Hampshire following a successful stint with the club in the Metro Bank One Day Cup.
Neal, 26, has signed a two-year contract following a short-term deal this summer which saw him play in all 11 of Hampshire’s matches in the One Day Cup.
The left-arm spinner and right-hand batter was the club’s leading wicket taker in the men’s competition with 14 to his name, with best figures of 3-33 coming against Surrey in Hampshire’s nine-wicket win at the Kia Oval.
Andrew Neal said: "I’m delighted to join Hampshire on a full-time multi-year deal. I thoroughly enjoyed my short-term contract with them last year and got a real taste for the history and success of the club being involved in both white ball finals last season. The environment under Nick Gubbins and Jimmy Adams in the One Day Cup was amazing to be a part of and I look forward to contributing more for Hampshire over the next couple of years."
Neal made his debut for Hampshire against Glamorgan at Neath in the Metro Bank One Day Cup and claimed 1-45 in 8.5 overs as Hampshire won by 72 runs. He impressed for the Second XI and took 26 wickets in 17 matches as Hampshire qualified for the Second XI T20 Finals Day.
For Hertfordshire in National Counties cricket, Neal took 64 wickets across all formats and scored 398 runs in 13 50-over matches before he joined Hampshire.
Neal's development was also supported by Challengers Cricket, where he was part of their winter squad and showcased his all-round capabilities.
Giles White, Director of Cricket at Hampshire Cricket said: "Andrew was an exceptional performer for us last season. To come in on a short-term contract and to end the One Day Cup as our leading wicket taker is outstanding and we're delighted to keep him with the club for a further two years. He fitted in seamlessly and took to professional cricket like a duck to water. We're excited to see what he can do over the next couple of seasons as a full-time professional."
Currently playing for Swanbourne CC in Perth, Australia, Neal has scored 235 runs with a century and two fifties and taken 13 wickets in three matches with figures of 8-56 against Applecross CC.
Fans can watch Andrew Neal in Hampshire colours with a Hampshire Cricket Membership. For more information about Hampshire Cricket’s membership offers, please visit www.utilitabowl.com.