Russell Domingo demands Hampshire reset after Division One relegation
Hampshire relegated after five-wicket defeat
Hampshire head coach Russell Domingo says the club needs a complete “reset” after relegation from County Championship Division One was confirmed by a five-wicket defeat against Leicestershire.
The result sends Hampshire back to Division Two for the first time since they won promotion in 2014. The club avoided relegation by a single point in 2025, before appointing Domingo on a two-year contract in December to replace Adi Birrell.
“This team has got to reset and refresh in all departments, and that process has got to start pretty soon,” Domingo told BBC Radio Solent.
“We don't deserve to be in Division One, that's the bottom line. We haven't been good enough from day one, so a lot of soul searching and how we move forward needs to take place.”
Injuries and availability problems exposed weaknesses
Hampshire’s bowling resources were depleted during the season. Brad Wheal and John Turner suffered injuries, with Turner subsequently forced to retire aged 25. Sonny Baker was away with England after making his Test debut against New Zealand, while Liam Dawson retired from red-ball cricket in May.
Domingo said the club had to examine its playing group, coaching methods and wider organisation rather than place responsibility solely on the players.
“It's not just the players. The coaches have to take a long hard look at ourselves and the way we do things, and try and get better,” he said.
He also identified the club’s facilities, home pitches, training wickets, recruitment strategy and overseas signings as areas requiring scrutiny.
Overseas recruitment also under review
Australia’s Michael Neser was initially signed for Hampshire’s first six Championship matches but was withdrawn by Cricket Australia in March. New Zealand all-rounder Scott Kuggeleijn was then recruited for the final four matches, although Hampshire reversed that decision after criticism and feedback from staff and supporters.
“We ended up with one overseas player this season which has been very hard,” Domingo said. “We need to secure players for next season and secure them pretty early so we can plan around those overseas players as well.”
Domingo backs Brown despite relegation
Hampshire Hawks reached the T20 Blast final before losing to Northamptonshire, but Domingo said the club had to be judged primarily on its red-ball cricket. He believes relegation could provide an opportunity to rebuild, pointing to Nottinghamshire’s experience of returning stronger after a similar setback.
“We need to strengthen because we don't want to be in Division Two for long,” Domingo said. “I'm positive we can get back to the top division if we just do things a little better.”
Domingo also backed red-ball captain Ben Brown, who was appointed ahead of the 2025 season, praising his commitment and leadership while acknowledging that everyone at the club must reflect on what could have been done differently.
Hampshire’s final match of the season is against Sussex at the Utilita Bowl, beginning on Thursday.