John Crawley has been awarded a benefit by Hampshire for 2008, which will be his seventh season with the club since his move from Lancashire.

“It’s a great privilege and honour to be awarded my benefit year by the members and supporters at Hampshire," said Crawley. "I’d like to thank them for the opportunity and their support over my career at Hampshire."

Paul Terry, the team manager, added: “It’s a fitting tribute to a player that was originally capped by Lancashire in 1994 and since his move to Hampshire has continued to entertain cricket supporters around the country with his fantastic style and grace of play.”