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HAMPSHIRE have secured their spinning department for next season with bowlers Imran Tahir and Liam Dawson signing new contracts with the county.

Pakistani Tahir, who has proved a match winner since joining for the second half of the season, will be the Hawks' overseas player for the next two seasons.

England under-19 star Dawson, one of the bright prospects in the game, has signed a three-year deal.

Tahir took 36 wickets in just six County Championship games and was a major reason why Hampshire rose from relegation contenders midway through the division one season.

Hampshire chairman Rod Bransgrove said: "This is fantastic news for Hampshire cricket and all our members and supporters.

"Immy has made a massive contribution since his arrival in July and he has become a real favourite - both in the dressing room and with our members and spectators.

"I am extremely pleased that he has chosen to commit himself to Hampshire for the next two seasons, and I am sure that he will continue to be one of the most potent and successful spinners on the county circuit."

Tahir said: "Everyone at Hampshire has made me feel so welcome and I will do everything in my power to help the team achieve the success I know we are capable of."

Left-arm spinner and middle-order batsman Dawson was earlier this month nominated for the prestigious Young Cricketer of the Year Award along with England and Nottinghamshire seamer Stuart Broad, England and Essex all-rounder Ravi Bopara and Kent opener Joe Denly.

Acting Hampshire team manager Giles White said: "The long-term deal that Liam has been offered reflects how highly he is regarded. I can't think of a more exciting young prospect in the country."

Dawson said: "The club have shown a lot of faith in me and I hope to repay that with good performances."

1:25pm Tuesday 30th September 2008

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