Chris Benham has committed his future to Hampshire, insisting: "I never wanted to leave."

Hampshire Academy product Benham, 23, has signed a two-year contract despite a tempting offer to sign for another county.

The Daily Echo understands that Nottinghamshire wanted to take Benham to Trent Bridge following the arrival at Hampshire of fellow middle-order batsman Michael Lumb from Yorkshire.

But after being assured that Hampshire see him as part of their long-term plans, the right-hander put pen to paper.

Hampshire's hopes of more success under Shane Warne next year have also been boosted by the news that Jimmy Adams, James Tomlinson, Greg Lamb and Billy Taylor have signed new deals, while Michael Brown is expected to follow suit.

Benham said: "There was good interest from one other county and after Lumby was signed I had a long think for a week or so.

"I spoke to manager Paul Terry and Shane Warne about it and they were both very encouraging.

"They assured me that I was still a part of their plans so I was delighted to sign. I can't imagine playing for another county."

Full story in today's Daily Echo