Jake Lehmann is an experienced left-handed middle-order batter, born in Melbourne, Australia, who began his first-class career during the 2014-15 season.
He has featured in 97 first-class matches, amassing 5,684 runs from 178 innings at an average of 34.65.
Across a long first class career, Lehmann has registered 16 centuries, with a highest score of 205, which came in his second season for South Australia against Tasmania.
Jake is the son of former Australia international and head coach Darren Lehmann, who is currently the head coach of Northamptonshire in Division Two of the County Championship.
Despite the father-son relation, Lehmann has been clear in his desire to join a Division One side with a strong culture and long-term ambition.
Ahead of his move to Hampshire, Lehmann spoke of his excitement at joining a club with a strong culture and clear long-term vision.
He is particularly looking forward to working within Hampshire’s new coaching structure, led by head coach Russell Domingo, alongside bowling coach Shane Burger and batting coach Jimmy Adams.
Eligible to play as a locally qualified player under his British passport, Lehmann has signed a two-year contract with Hampshire, committing himself to the County Championship and white-ball competitions in 2026 and 2027.
The move marks a significant career decision, with Lehmann choosing to focus on a long-term future in county cricket, effectively sacrificing the dream to play Test cricket for Australia.
Lehmann has previous county experience with Yorkshire and Lancashire, and also has family ties to Hampshire through his uncle Craig White, a former England all-rounder and ex-Hampshire coach.
He will also reunite with fellow Australian Michael Neser, who joins Hampshire for the first six games of the 2026 County Championship.
In the 2016 County Championship, Lehmann played five games for Yorkshire, scoring at an impressive average of 54.85, with a highest score of 116 against Somerset.
An unforgettable moment in Lehmann's career was his BBL debut. He smashed his first ball for six which was also the final delivery of the game to secure a thrilling win for the Adelaide Strikers against the Hobart Hurricanes.
The left-hander will be arriving in strong form from the ongoing 2025-26 Sheffield Shield season, averaging 42.60, smashing two 100s ahead of his move to Hampshire.
