CHRIS Benham is looking for a new county after being released by Hampshire.

The batsman came up through the Hampshire ranks but his opportunities were limited last season.

Benham, 27, said: “I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at Hampshire Cricket and would like to thank everyone at the club for helping me develop as a cricketer and a person.

"I have been lucky enough to be part of a very successful one-day team in recent years. A personal highlight was winning the FP Final at Lords in 2009.

“Hampshire is a great club with huge ambition and it has a group of exciting and very talented youngsters. I wish them every success in the future.

“Personally, I still have a huge desire to play cricket at the highest level and see playing in a new environment with different ideas as a very exciting prospect.”

Hampshire manager, Giles White added: “As the squad has strengthened opportunities for Chris have become limited. However, he has a good feel for the game and has never given anything but 100% for the Hampshire cause, and I would like to thank him for his input.

“We at Hampshire Cricket wish him well in his pursuit of a new direction for his cricket in 2011.”