Hampshire have released four players from their county staff following a meeting of the cricket committee on Monday.

The most senior of the players is John Stephenson, 36, the former Essex and England all-rounder. He came to Hampshire in 1995, taking over as captain from Mark Nicholas. He did the job for two years before being replaced by the current captain, Robin Smith. His appearances for the First XI this season have been limited to just three CricInfo Championship and four Benson and Hedges matches. Stephenson is concluding his benefit year.

Simon Francis, 23, has been troubled by injury over the past couple of years, and with the rise of young seam bowling talent at the club in the form of James Schofield, James Hamblin and Chris Tremlett, the club felt they had to release this likeable young man. It is ironic, as his brother John has broken into the first team as a batsman. Simon made his debut in 1997.

Zac Morris, 23, came to Hampshire in 1998 with his brother Alex. He has played just two first-class matches for his newly-adopted county. He arrived as a left-arm bowler, and switched to seam with some success. But other problems within the club have led to his release.

Andrew Sexton, 22, joined Hampshire from the MCC Young Cricketers in 1998 and showed early promise as an opening batsman, scoring a half century on his debut. But his progress since has been limited. He played in 11 Second XI games, averaging nearly 31, but a surplus of available players has led to his release.

© Hampshire CCC