Hampshire Cricket are today expected to announce the signing of Essex star Reece Topley.

Topley, a 6ft 7in left-arm fast bowler, is seen as a potential leader of Hampshire’s attack.

Still only 21, he has already taken 125 first-class wickets at 25.8 apiece and yesterday made his England t20 international debut in the thrilling victory over Australia in Cardiff.

In List A cricket, Topley’s 50 wickets at 23.7 included a career-best 4-26 as Essex beat Hampshire at The Ageas Bowl in the Royal London One-Day Cup last month.