South African batter Tristan Stubbs will link up with Hampshire Hawks for the 2026 edition of the VBlast, adding explosive firepower to the county’s T20 setup. The 25-year-old, widely regarded as one of the most destructive middle-order batters in the modern game, will be making his debut appearance in England’s premier domestic T20 competition.

Stubbs has already established himself on the international stage, having represented South Africa 71 times since making his debut in 2022. Alongside his international duties, he has built an impressive résumé across major franchise leagues, including the Indian Premier League (IPL), Caribbean Premier League, SA20 and The Hundred.

Across 154 T20 matches, Stubbs has amassed 3,188 runs at an average of 32.30, striking at a healthy rate of 142.95. His recent IPL form has been particularly eye-catching. Over the last two seasons with the Delhi Capitals, the right-hander has scored more than 600 runs at a blistering strike rate of 170 while maintaining an average of 52.

While the upcoming season will mark his first appearance in the Blast, Stubbs is no stranger to English conditions or the Utilita Bowl. He featured at the venue during Proteas's 90-run victory in the third T20I against England in July 2022, and later returned in September 2025 for the third ODI.

Stubbs has also previously taken part in The Hundred, scoring 157 runs for Manchester Originals in 2022. He is set to return to the competition in 2026 as a direct signing for Southern Brave.

The South African arrives at Hampshire fresh from more silverware, having recently secured his third SA20 title in four years with Sunrisers Eastern Cape. His unbeaten 63 off 41 balls proved decisive in the final against Pretoria Capitals at Cape Town, with the side coached by former Hampshire head coach Adi Birrell.

“Tristan is a hugely talented player with strong connections to the club through his time at Delhi Capitals and his relationships with our coaches, past and present. He's a wonderful addition and having him involved is a massive boost for our squad and the competition as a whole. We can't wait to see him light up the Bowl," Hampshire director of cricket Giles White said.