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Warne looking forward to Hampshire stint

Shane Warne, the extrovert Australian who helped revive the art of wrist spin, today said he was excited about playing for Hampshire in next year's County Championship and the timing was just right.

''Playing County cricket is something I always wanted to do. The timing has not been quite right over the years but this time I think the time is right,'' he said in an interview in Colombo where Australia are touring.

''I am quiet excited and looking forward to the challenge,'' he said.

Warne, 30, has agreed a deal worth more than 100,000 pounds (US162,000 dollars) although his new team could be playing in the second division next year when the present championship is split in two.

''The deal we got makes both parties happy. Initially three or four counties were involved, then I got down to a couple,'' Warne said, adding that his family would join him in England while he plays.

''I played only on Ashes tours and in tour games they try out younger guys and the senior players rest so you don't get a true indication of what county cricket is like,'' Warne said.

''All the guys I've spoken to about County cricket really enjoyed themselves, I am looking forward to it.''

Warne may combine with England left-arm pace bowler Alan Mullally who will quit Leicestershire at the end of the season.

Newspaper reports on Friday said Mullally was likely to join Hampshire.

UNI