Hawks announce 2026 contract extension for Wood

By Connor Steel

HAMPSHIRE HAWKS have announced that bowler Chris Wood has officially agreed his fresh ‘contract extension’ that will see him play at the Utilita Bowl until the conclusion of 2026; the thirty-five year old veteran deciding to continue his record-breaking stint with the county’s Twenty-20 side and providing a big boost ahead of the Finals Day this Saturday.

The bowler first signed for Hampshire back in 2010 and has become the Hawks’ leading wicket taker with use of quick left-arm seam; the veteran dismissing 208 batsman in just 189 matches at the average of 25.33. He has contributed to the team with the bat too as they won the T-20 Vitality Blast competition in the years of 2010 and 2012 alongside 2022.

His ability to strike at key moments and maintain real control under big pressure has made Wood a fan favourite in the shortest format, as well as the most reliable bowlers in the competition. This was evident on Friday evening as he took a wicket and conceding thirty runs in Hampshire’s tight victory against Durham in their Vitality Blast quarter final match.

The team are now scheduled to feature in Finals Day for a record eleventh time in their history, which is taking place at Edgbaston throughout September 13. They are set to play Northamptonshire Steelbacks from 2:30pm in this semi-final stage and will hope to move into the final against Lancashire Lightning or Somerset in the final at 6:45pm with a victory.

Readers can explore quotes from both Chris Wood and captain James Vince on this online link; which will further allow supporters to see full updates around the Utilita Bowl including 2026 player contract news and the club’s future fixtures.

PICTURED BY ALAMY (2R53F4E): Chris Wood celebrates taking wicket of a Surrey batsman during their 2023 match.