CHRIS TREMLETT could be Hampshire's answer to England Test hero Steve Harmison.

At six-foot seven inches tall, Tremlett, pictured above, is built for fast bowling.

And obvious comparisons can be made with Durham bowler Harmison - both are tall, strong and get a lot of bounce, although Harmison is probably a yard quicker.

Both attended the England academy under Rodney Marsh's tuition in Australia and both have suffered their fair share of injury setbacks under the strain of such a large frame.

Tremlett, who arrived on the Hampshire scene in July 2000 - taking a wicket with his very first ball in first class cricket against New Zealand 'A' - has spent this winter Down Under with Hampshire physio Patrick Farhart, working on strengthening his legs and back to prevent further injury.

Last season various injuries restricted Tremlett to only ten county championship appearances, in which he amassed 27 wickets at 34.4.

He said: "I've had my fair share of injury problems over the last couple of seasons.

"My number one goal is to get through this season injury free, then the wickets and runs will follow."

The England academy is seen as a stepping stone to Test cricket, Harmison and Steve Jones being perfect examples of such progression.

"I learnt a lot from the Academy, it has helped me to become a more mature cricketer," added Tremlett, who will be encouraged by Harmison's success in the West Indies.

Harmison picked up the player of the series for his 23 wickets, including a 7-12 return when the West Indies were skittled for 47 in the second innings of the First Test in Jamaica.

Tremlett, who was hoping to face Durham in the 2004 championship opener at The Rose Bowl today, believes Hampshire will do well this summer.

"With the best bowler in the world playing for us and one of the best young talents in Australia, we can't go far wrong," said the man with 95 first class wickets to his name.

"Shane is an inspiration to all the young players.

"He's very approachable and we can all learn a lot from him."

With the exception of Simon Katich, Hampshire's overseas players last year had limited success.

Wasim Akram only managed 55 runs and 20 wickets in his five county championship matches before injury curtailed his season.

Replacement seamer Chaminda Vaas of Sri Lanka continued the under achievement with only eight wickets in three first class matches at 38.75.

But Tremlett believes it won't be the same story in 2004. "It will be different this year, the Aussies will give 100 per cent," he remarked.

County cricket has become more professional over the last few years - players are both fitter and stronger.

There is also an attempt at Hampshire to make the players stronger mentally, aided by the recent addition of sports psychologist Sandy Gordon.

Tremlett added: "The whole attitude and vibe of the club is much more professional than a couple of years ago.

"We have a good mixture of youth and experience and over the next season or two Hampshire should be a force to reckon with."

SEE TODAY'S DAILY ECHO FOR A 12-PAGE HAMPSHIRE CRICKET 2004 SUPPLEMENT