SOUTHAMPTON — In a significant move for the county’s batting lineup, Hampshire Hawks have secured the signature of Australian left-hander Jake Lehmann on a two-year deal, with the 31-year-old expressing palpable excitement about joining a “new-look” setup at the Utilita Bowl for the 2024 season and beyond.
The son of former Australia coach and Test batsman Darren Lehmann, Jake arrives with a formidable reputation in first-class and one-day cricket, most notably as a prolific run-scorer for South Australia in the Sheffield Shield. His decision to commit to Hampshire, where he will be available across all formats as a local player, signals a fresh chapter for both the club and the player, who is keen to immerse himself in the county’s ambitious project.
A Coaching Team That Inspires Confidence
A major draw for Lehmann was the strength and vision of the coaching team led by Director of Cricket Giles White and newly appointed Head Coach Adi Birrell. He highlighted the clarity of purpose and the winning mentality that permeates the club as key factors in his decision. "From my very first conversations, it was clear this is a club that knows where it wants to go and has the people in place to get there," Lehmann stated.
He reserved particular praise for Birrell, whose extensive experience and recent success with the Southern Brave in The Hundred resonated deeply. "Adi’s record speaks for itself, and his approach to the game is something I really connect with. He builds strong environments where players are empowered to express themselves, and that’s exactly the kind of atmosphere I thrive in," he explained.
Nurturing the Next Generation
Beyond the established leadership, Lehmann spoke enthusiastically about the wealth of young talent emerging at Hampshire. He sees his role not just as a run-scorer, but as a senior figure who can help guide this promising group. "One of the most exciting things is looking around the squad and seeing the incredible young players coming through," he said.
He pointed to several individuals who have already made their mark, noting their potential to become mainstays for the county and potentially on the international stage:
- Tom Prest: The dynamic batsman and captain of the Second XI, already with a first-class double-century to his name.
- Fletcha Middleton: The elegant opening batter who has shown great composure in his early first-team opportunities.
- Ben Brown (wk): While experienced, his recent form and leadership add crucial stability to the batting order.
- Eddie Jack & John Turner: The young pace-bowling duo who have burst onto the scene with genuine wicket-taking threat.
"It’s a fantastic blend," Lehmann continued. "You have these hungry, talented youngsters pushing everyone, mixed with proven performers like James Vince, Liam Dawson, and Kyle Abbott. That competition for places drives standards every single day."
The Utilita Bowl: A Fortress to Build Upon
Lehmann is no stranger to English conditions, having had previous stints with Durham and in league cricket, but he identified the Utilita Bowl as a special venue and a key part of Hampshire’s identity. He is eager to contribute to making it a fortress across all formats. "It’s a brilliant ground with a pitch that can offer something for everyone, which makes for compelling cricket," he noted.
The Australian left-hander believes the conditions in Southampton will suit his game, which is built on a solid technique but with the flair to accelerate. "I’ve watched a lot of cricket from there, and it can be a great place to bat if you apply yourself. I back my game to adapt and contribute in all situations, whether that’s grafting in a four-day game or trying to push the rate in the Blast."
Ambitions for the Two-Year Stint
With a two-year contract offering stability, Lehmann’s goals are firmly aligned with the club’s pursuit of silverware. Hampshire, runners-up in the County Championship in 2023 and perennial contenders in the T20 Blast, have a palpable hunger for trophies. "You don’t join a club like Hampshire to just make up the numbers," he asserted emphatically.
He outlined his personal and collective ambitions, which include:
- Piling on runs consistently in the County Championship.
- Helping the Hawks finally lift the T20 Blast title again.
- Making a strong impact in the One-Day Cup.
- Mentoring the younger batsmen in the squad.
"I want to be a pillar of the batting order, a guy the team can rely on," Lehmann said. "But more than that, I want to help bring success to this group. The vibe here is one of a club on the rise, and I’m just incredibly excited to be a part of it."