Mark Garaway, Hampshire’s reserve wicket keeper has retired from the playing staff at the county to take over the job of Cricket Development Officer from January 1st 2000. He takes over from Tony Middleton, who has been appointed Second Team coach. Garaway, who’s opportunities to play in the first team were limited to just three first-class matches against Cambridge University in 1996, Sri Lanka in 1998 and New Zealand in 1999. He also played in one National League match in 1999. He will be responsible for bringing on the young cricketers, and will be liasing with clubs and schools as part of the counties School of Excellence.

The 26-year-old spent several years as Adi Aymes number two, and spent most winters involved in Hampshire’s winter coaching programme.

Garaway who with Tony Middleton is currently at Lillishall on coaching courses, was delighted with the appointment, “Although I will miss the playing side, especially when April comes around” said Garaway, "I am looking forward to a new challenge, and working with the young cricketers of the future". His retirement makes way for new signing Iain Brunnschweiler a local Southampton boy to stake a claim for a first team place.

Tony Middleton who relinquishes the post of Development Officer, is taking on the roll as Second Team coach. Middleton who had a successful run as Hampshire’s opening batsman from 1984 to 1995, played in 105 first-class games, scoring 5,665 runs, culminating in an England ‘A’ tour to Australia in 1992-1993. His best season was in 1992 when he scored 1780 runs, including 221 against Surrey.

Middleton takes over when the players report back for training in March 2000. In his previous position he was responsible for bringing on young cricketers, many who will be in his charge in the second team. “I look forward to working with them at this level”, said Middleton, “and seeing them progress hopefully into first-team cricket”.

Tim Tremlett, Hampshire’s Director of Cricket and Coaching was delighted to have Tony alongside, looking after the second’s, and feels Mark Garaway’s appointment will be treated with great enthusiasm.