HAMPSHIRE will find out if they have been given a dramatic reprieve from relegation next week - as Durham sweat over a possible points deduction.

A report in today's Times newspaper reveals that the England and Wales Cricket Board is considering deducting points from Durham after providing financial support to the county during the season.

Durham finished 45 points clear of Hampshire, who were relegated after losing their final game of the season against the north-east county at The Ageas Bowl.

So it would take a big points deduction to hand them a ‘retrospective relegation’. It seems more likely that Durham will have to start next season with a points punishment but all will be revealed next week.

News of a possible reprieve for Hampshire broke a few hours before the Cricket Writers’ Club’s 70th anniversary lunch in London, where county chairman Rod Bransgrove was a guest.

He told Radio Solent: “From what I gather Durham are in quite difficult financial circumstances and it looks like a different company might come in and start picking up the pieces and start afresh.

“Without ECB support it looks like they might not have lasted the season so it’s a very sad story indeed and we deeply regret the circumstances that Durham Cricket finds itself in.

“I don’t want to see the back of Durham CCC  any more than I want to see the back of any other club.

“I’ve got no problem with the ECB trying to keep them in business but those of us that played Durham were probably put at a disadvantage and relegation probably is the right move for them.

“But all I can do is feel sympathy for them for getting into this position and hope that whoever takes over gets off to a flying start.”

Kent, who finished second behind Essex in division two, will doubtless believe they have a case for promotion if Durham are relegated.

“The rules are that two go down and one comes up so if Durham are relegated it probably gives us another opportunity,” added Bransgrove.

“In fairness, given the way the team was depleted without seven first team players including top three or four bowlers it was a tremendous handicap to get over.

“We wouldn’t bring any discredit on the first division. With a fully fit squad we would give it a really good go next year.

“We’re worthy of first division status but my opinions are based on hearsay.”

Meanwhile, the ECB has released the following statement: "It's well known that we've had several conversations throughout the season with Durham CCC about the opportunities and challenges facing the club.

"We are fully committed to supporting the game in the North East and are working closely with the club to ensure a successful and sustainable future."

Durham have already lost star players Mark Stoneman and Scott Borthwick, whose match-winning runs on the final day of the season sent Hampshire down last week, to Surrey.

A Durham statement added: "Durham CCC confirms that talks continue with the ECB in relation to securing a long-term future for the club with a sustainable funding model."