Hampshire bolster their squad with ex-England opener Mark Stoneman as they chase red-ball glory

Hampshire have secured the signing of former England batter Mark Stoneman on a one-year red-ball deal, bringing in the experienced opener ahead of the 2025 County Championship season.

The 37-year-old left-hander, who last played for England in 2018, joins from Middlesex and is set to strengthen Hampshire’s batting line-up as they push for their first Championship title since 1973.

“I’m very much looking forward to joining Hampshire for the upcoming season,” Stoneman said. “I know how hungry the club is to get their hands on the championship having been so close for the last few years. There’s a fantastic group of players and coaches, and hopefully, we can get that red-ball title come September.”

Aiming for the Title

Hampshire have come agonisingly close to Championship success in recent years, finishing second in Division One last season—their best result since 2005. With James Vince opting out of red-ball cricket, the club needed reinforcements, and Stoneman’s arrival added valuable experience to the squad.

The seasoned batter, who has scored over 13,000 first-class runs at an average of 34, could either open the batting alongside Ali Orr or be slotted into a middle-order role to replace Vince. His stint at Middlesex saw him maintain a solid average of 36, proving he still has plenty to offer despite his age.

Hampshire begin their 2025 County Championship campaign in early April with a home clash against newly promoted Yorkshire. With Stoneman in their ranks, they will be hoping to go one step further and finally clinch the elusive title.