Aiden Markram replaces Dimuth Karunaratne at Hampshire

Markram is available in red and white-ball cricket until early May, when he may be required by the Proteas for their World Cup campaign

Hampshire have signed Aiden Markram for the start of the county season.

The South African arrives as cover for Dimuth Karunaratne, who initially agreed a deal with the south coast county only to find himself needed by Sri Lanka.

Markram is available in red and white-ball cricket until early May, when he may be required by the Proteas for their World Cup campaign.

Hampshire have not ruled out Karunaratne turning out for the club at some point during the summer, either.

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Hampshire director of cricket Giles White said: “We’re really pleased to have secured the signing of Aiden. He’s certainly a player that we’ve kept a close eye on for the last couple of years and he’s had a great start to his international career in that time – he’s one of the best young talents in the world at this stage in terms of top-order batsman.

“We start the season against a strong Essex team so it’s important to get him in as soon as possible and prepped for that fixture but we’re looking forward to having him with us to begin the season.”

Markram said: “I’m very excited to be joining Hampshire for the start of their season. Hampshire have a great squad and I’m looking forward to working with the coaching staff and contributing to the goals of the team. The Ageas Bowl and its facilities are brilliant and I have always wanted to go back after touring there with South Africa A so I am grateful for the opportunity.”

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