TALENTED wicketkeeper-batsman Calvin Dickinson has signed a new deal with Hampshire.

Dickinson, who also played for Lymington in the Southern Premier League, has agreed a contract which will see him remain at the Ageas Bowl until at least the end of the 2018 season.

Dickinson began his tenure with the county as part of the academy and second XI.

Following impressive performances with the bat and behind the stumps in 2016, he was initially rewarded with a scholarship contract.

The gloveman blossomed in 2017 and impressed when striking a sublime 99 against South Africa A in a side led by four-day captain George Bailey.

An injury to regular wicketkeeper Lewis McManus later in the campaign presented further opportunities for the 21-year-old.

Dickinson made his first-team debut in the T20 Blast where he was later promoted to open.

A maiden half-century against Kent Spitfires in his second T20 innings demonstrated his natural shot-making ability and helped him to a full professional contract.

Hampshire director of cricket Giles White said: “What we’ve seen in Calvin is a lot of talent and he’s an exciting young cricketer.

“There’s been glimpses of it already and those who were there at Canterbury for his maiden half-century, from not very many balls, would have seen that he’s a player who can score quickly with the bat.

“He’s been working hard on his game here this winter and, hopefully, he can blossom and push for a place.”