Hampshire County Cricket Club announced today, that the Australian Cricket Board have approved the contract with the club for Shane Warne to play for the county in Season 2000.

Shane Warne will miss around 12 days of the county season, however due to commitments by Australia to play in two One-Day International series. The first three-match series is to be played in Johannesburg from 12th to 16th April; this means the club are hopeful he will be with them by the Essex Benson & Hedges Cup match on April 19th. The second tournament is an indoor competition in Melbourne from 16th to 20th August.

The ACB also stated that they would be monitoring all their players whilst they are in England, keeping tabs on their progress and fitness.

Tony Baker, Hampshire Chief Executive, stated he was delighted that approval had been forthcoming, and felt sure that despite losing him for those short spells mentioned, will be a tremendous asset to the playing staff.