ANDREW SEXTON could be checking his Hampshire summer contract to see if the ink on it is still moist after being handed a big responsibility by the club.

Sexton only signed his contract with the county two weeks ago - and tomorrow he finds himself opening the batting and trying to turn round the county's fortunes.

And he has to do it in what is already being branded a must-win game for the sake of Hampshire's morale as much as for their chances of staying in Division 1 of the county championship.

Sexton was as surprised as anyone when he was told yesterday he would be opening the batting with Giles White as Hampshire answer the calls to give youngsters a chance where more senior players have failed this season.

"I suppose there was always a chance with the club's situation that there was a chance someone would be put in but I certainly didn't think I was top of the list.

"I thought I would have to put a few scores together first.

"It hasn't really sunk in yet and I don't suppose it will until I'm sat in the dressing room tomorrow just before I'm due to go out.

"I'm more excited than nervous at the moment, although I'm sure I will have some nerves."

Sexton has been in good nick for Hampshire Seconds this season, making a ton against Lancashire Twos and has also been among the runs for his club side Bashley.

He has played in the last two Minor Counties championship finals for Dorset and last season made 196 in the final against Cumbria.

Sexton gets his chance as Hampshire fulfil an ambition this season to get a left-right hand opening partnership together.

Hampshire are also set to make other changes to try and turn their fortunes around.

Peter Hartley looks set to return to action, as does Dimi Mascarenhas, but Will Kendall's tweaked hamstring is giving cause for concern. If Kendall is unfit Jason Laney will be handed a route back in to the side.

Simon Francis's place in the team will depend on Hartley's fitness or the condition of the May's Bounty pitch, with Hampshire opting between him and Shaun Udal.

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