NEW Zealander Brett Hampton has signed for Hampshire for the first two months of the season, replacing Australian all-rounder Jack Edwards.

New South Wales captain Edwards picked up a knee injury in the final round of the Sheffield Shield last month and requires at least six weeks of rehabilitation.

Since 2023, Hampton, a right-handed batter and pace bowler, has scored 873 runs at an average of over 41 and has taken 45 wickets at an average of 21.53 in First-Class Cricket.

In the current season of the Plunket Shield, the First-Class competition in New Zealand, Hampton, 33, has scored 581 runs with one century and two fifties. 

He has claimed 23 wickets – the second most for Northern Districts – with his best innings figures at 4-46.

Hampton said: “I’m excited to come and play in the County Championship with Hampshire; the team had a great campaign last year.

"Hopefully, I can help the club push for the title this year. I’ve spoken with Kyle Abbott and the coaching staff, and I look forward to joining up with the rest of the squad in a few days.”

In his career, Hampton has played in 38 First-Class games, where he has scored 1546 runs at an average over 30 and has taken 80 wickets at an average under 28.

He has also featured in 161 white ball matches and has taken 108 wickets and scored nearly 3,000 runs across List A and T20 formats.

Giles White, director of cricket at Hampshire, said: “Brett has shown over the last couple of seasons that he’s a quality all-round cricketer.

"Naturally, we’re saddened at the circumstances surrounding Jack Edwards, and everyone at the club wishes him the best in his recovery.

"We feel Brett will be an excellent addition to our red ball side, and his experience of playing in similar conditions in New Zealand will be a great asset.”