Michael David BATES

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“Batesy” is a wicketkeeper and right-handed batsman.

A local boy who went to Lord Wandsworth College and graduated through Hampshire's Academy sides, he began the 2009 and 2010 seasons as deputy to Nic Pothas. However, when the latter suffered serious injuries in both seasons Bates took his chance splendidly in all forms of the game and was a member of the Hampshire side that won the Friends Provident t20 Trophy in 2010 as well as getting to a second consecutive Finals Day in 2011.

In 2010 he held 28 catches in eight First-Class matches – an average of 3.5 per match which is still the highest ever for Hampshire. Then, in 2011 and under pressure to prove his batting prowess, Bates responded in the best possible way by recording a then career-best 58* against Durham at the Emirates ICG - helping Hampshire to their first Championship win of the season.

With Pothas' departure at the end of the 2011 season, Bates took on the wicket-keeping position full time and immediately looked comfortable in the role, taking a ground record-equalling six catches in an innings against Gloucestershire at The Ageas Bowl.

He then followed that up by scoring a maiden First Class hundred against Yorkshire at Headingley to enhance his reputation with the willow.