Hampshire confirm signing of Northants all-rounder Saif Zaib

Zaib's departure from the cinch County Ground was announced on Thursday, and just 24 hours later it has been confirmed the 28-year-old has made the move to the Utilita Bowl in Southampton.

It is a ground Zaib will be familiar with, having played there for Southern Brave in The Hundred last summer.

The move also means the left-hander will be lining up against his former Northants team-mates next season, as Hampshire will be playing in the Rothesay County Championship Division Two following their relegation in September.

Hampshire director of cricket Giles White said: "We're delighted to welcome Saif to the club.

"He's been an excellent performer for several years and has been especially prolific with the bat in championship cricket over the last two seasons.

"His versatility makes him an exciting addition to the squad, and he'll strengthen our side in both red and white ball competitions.

"We look forward to having him on board."

Zaib will join a Hampshire squad that includes England internationals Sonny Baker, Liam Dawson and James Vince, as well as Jake Lehmann, son of Northants head coach Darren.

The south coast side finished rock bottom of division one of the Championship last season, and finished runners-up in the Vitality Blast - losing to Northants Steelbacks in the final.

In the Metro Bank One Day Cup, Hampshire failed to qualify for the knockout stages, finishing fifth in the Group B.