NatWest, long-term sponsors of cricket at both International and "grass roots" level, are the new backers of the recently launched Under-16 indoor six-a-side league being staged in Hampshire's new state-of-the-art cricket school at the Rose Bowl.

They are backing a weekly competition that has the bulk of the top Under-16 cricketers in the region playing against each other on a regular basis.

Most of the teenagers playing are of county and district standard and the involvement of NatWest means that, among other benefits, top Southern Premier League umpires officiating and new balls for every match.

"Playing standards have been high during the initial three weeks.

"The pitch is so true that the youngsters have to bowl a good line and length, which is an essential area in their development," said Hampshire's director of cricket, Tim Tremlett.

At the end of the 12-week season - on Sunday April 14 - the leading two clubs will play off for the overall championship.

David Coles, Centre Manager, Lombard, and Hampshire director of cricket Tim Tremlett are pictured alongside the Havant and South Wilts teams at the start of last weekend's third round of matches.

© Daily Echo