Hampshire have announced their largest-yet cricket academy intake - 12 promising youngsters with aspirations of a long-term career in the game.

The squad, most of whom will get an opportunity to show their skills in the Southern Electric Premier League next summer, have been training and practising twice weekly at the Rose Bowl for the past two months.

"They don't just come to the indoor school for practice net sessions," emphasised academy director Tony Middleton.

"In addition to a pretty strenuous fitness training routine, they learn about tactical awareness and the mental approach to the game - two key elements of their development," he added.

Backed by sports drink Powerade, Hampshire's Class of 2005 is five players larger than last year, with South Wilts left-hand all-rounder Eddie Abel, Roy Cochram, Liam Dawson, Benny Howell and Conor Regan the new kids on the block.

The success of Hampshire's Academy has already been recognised at national level, with pace bowler David Griffiths and Mitchell Stokes - now in his academy third year - selected for the forthcoming England Under-19 tour to India.

"David has already been rewarded with a one-year contract for 2005, while Mitch has worked very hard on his batting technique and off-spin bowling," Middleton said.

All-rounder Richard Morris is with the England Under-17 winter training squad, while Chris Morgan, Hamza Riazuddin and Darren Rouse are in the Under-15 group.

"These England selections underline the incentives for all these youngsters to do well, as I'm sure they will if they show the necessary application and dedication," he added.

Also making a mark at national level is wicketkeeper-batsman Kirsty White, who is one of the most promising players in the England Women's Under-21 development squad.