TOBY Albert, Fletcha Middleton, Tom Prest and John Turner have all signed new multi-year deals with Hampshire Cricket Club.

The rising stars, all of which are products of the club’s player pathway system, have extended their stays at the Ageas Bowl having made their mark in the first XI over the past couple of years.

Albert made his professional debut in the 2021 Vitality Blast and has since gone on to represent Hampshire in all three formats.

The middle-order batter has shown his ability in both white-ball teams and finished off 2023 with his first appearances for the club in the county championship.

Middleton was an ever-present in Hampshire’s county championship and Metro Bank one-day cup sides in 2023, opening the batting in both.

He particularly impressed during the 50-over competition, scoring 480 runs, including a first professional century against Middlesex.

Speaking about the new contracts, Hampshire director of cricket Giles White said: "They are an exciting group that have progressed through the system.

"We look forward to watching them grow over the coming years and we feel they have the attributes to help take the team to the next level."

Batting all-rounder Prest is another who has made great strides in the first team since his debut in 2021.

He has become a key member of both the T20 and one-day squads. He played a notable part in the Hawks 2022 Vitality Blast triumph.

The former England under-19’s captain also played five matches in the 2023 county championship, recording his maiden first-class ton against Essex at Chelmsford.

Prest added: "It’s really exciting, after getting my first contract from coming through the academy, and now for it to be renewed is very pleasing.

"I have loved the first two or three years I've had being in and around the first eleven and I can’t wait for that to continue."

Last year was a breakout season for Turner who, having only played 50-over cricket prior, was given his county championship and Vitality Blast debuts.

He particularly impressed in the latter taking 21 wickets at an incredible average of just 11.76.

Upon signing his new deal, Turner said: "After an amazing couple of years at the Ageas Bowl, it was an easy decision to extend my time at the Club.

"Since making the step up to the first XI, I have really enjoyed my time on and off the pitch. Hampshire have played a massive role in the development of my cricket and I couldn’t thank everyone at the club enough.

"I am extremely excited for the next few years and hopefully I can help contribute to more success on the pitch."

His performances saw him gain international attention and he was rewarded with an ECB development contract before being called up to the England squad for their tour of the Caribbean.