JAMES Tomlinson has signed a new two-year contract with Hampshire.

The seam bowler has put pen to paper on a deal that will keep him at the Rose Bowl until the end of the 2013 season.

Tomlinson, 29, is about to embark on his tenth year with the club.

He was Hampshire's leading first class wicket-taker in 2010 and the country’s top first class wicket-taker in 2008.

"I’m absolutely over the moon," said Tomlinson. "I’m really looking forward to the next couple of years and doing my bit for the team, hopefully through a successful period.

"We’re working in the nets, already, on different things and I’m looking to add things to my game. I’m just looking forward to bowling with all the really good young, talented bowlers that we’ve got and I think, if we do that, we work on our plans and we stick together we’ll be absolutely fine."

Hampshire coach Giles White said: "We are delighted that James has extended his contract as he continues to be a vital part of the club.

"He has the ability to swing the ball both ways, is a terrific influence on the team and his experience and quality will play a big part over the next few years."