HAMPSHIRE Cricket have awarded Chris Wood with a testimonial year in 2024, as he enters his 15th season with the club.

The left-arm bowler made his professional debut in 2010 in a first-class game against Oxford Marylebone Cricket Club University, having progressed through the Club’s Academy.

Since then, Wood has become an instrumental part of the Hampshire squad, particularly in white-ball cricket.

He has been a part of five trophy winning sides, helping the club win two List A titles (in 2012 and 2018) and three in the T20 format (in 2010, 2012 and 2022).

He has also become the club’s all-time leading T20 wicket taker and currently has 186 scalps to his name.

Across all formats, Wood has made a total of 295 appearances for Hampshire, taking 397 wickets – including six five-wicket hauls.

Speaking about the announcement Chris Wood said: “I am truly honoured to receive a testimonial from my beloved boyhood club; a place that has evolved into a second home over the years.

“In 2000, at 10 years old, I stepped into the ground for the first time and I immediately felt a connection.

"When I first had the privilege to wear the Hampshire jersey professionally in 2010, my childhood dream became a reality.

"Now, as I plan for a testimonial year, it surpasses any expectation I had.

“I am grateful for the upcoming opportunities and I’m excited to start this journey with my dedicated committee. I’m looking forward to connecting with all of you throughout the year.”

Nick Pike, Hampshire Cricket chairman, added: “Woody has been an exceptional one club cricketer at Hampshire, particularly in white-ball cricket.

“His ability to exert control and deliver wicket-taking deliveries under extreme pressure has been a key component of Hampshire’s success over an extended period.

“A testimonial is a reward to an excellent cricketer, a loyal club player and a thoroughly decent human being - all of which perfectly sum up our Woody.”

Tom Mundy, chair of the testimonial committee, concluded: “Woody’s service to Hampshire Cricket has surpassed over a decade.

“I’m excited to get started along with a committee that has been formed in the hope of giving Chris the very best testimonial year possible."