Hampshire sign Ireland seamer Craig Young

22 April 2016 04:53

Hampshire have signed Ireland seamer Craig Young, as they try to ease their injury crisis at the start of the new season.

Cricket Ireland have agreed to release Young on a short-term agreement, and the 26-year-old is due to make his debut in Hampshire's 2nd XI match against Somerset next week.

Hampshire have been hit by a succession of injuries to key players, starting with England seamer Reece Topley, who broke his hand on debut for his new county last week.

Strike bowler Fidel Edwards was then among those hurt during the Specsavers Division One draw away to Yorkshire, breaking his ankle in a warm-up football match on the final morning at Headingley.

Ireland coach John Bracewell said: "Craig will continue his progression as one of Ireland's front-line bowlers after a very good spell, especially over the last 12 months.

"With the North-West Warriors not having any championship cricket until late May and Ireland not in action until June, we feel the timing is ideal for Craig and hope he can aid Hampshire's significant injury problems."

Young added: "The request has come from completely left field. But it's great to be given a chance, which I hope I can grab with both hands.

He has won 31 caps for Ireland, and has taken 58 wickets at an average of just 22.83.

Source: PA